Guide to Submitting Planning Applications
The Department of Planning aims to process applications as expeditiously as possible. However, incomplete applications or inaccurate information can result in significant delays, or in applications being rejected or refused.
This guidance note sets out the submission requirements for DAP1 Development applications and DAP2 Subdivision applications. All planning applications must be submitted via the Department of Planning’s Customer Self Service portal.
All Planning Applications
All DAP1 and DAP2 planning applications must include the required documents in PDF format at the time of submission.
- An online application form completed in full via the Customer Self Service Portal.
- A survey, or written confirmation from the Department of Planning that a survey has been waived.
- Planning drawings submitted as a full plan set in a single PDF document.
- A location plan forming part of the plan set.
Location Plan Requirements
- Show the application site and neighbouring properties and roads within at least 500 feet.
- Name the road on which the site is located and at least one nearby road, including one public road.
- Outline the application site in red.
- Outline adjacent land owned by the applicant in blue.
- Colour access from the nearest public road in yellow.
Quick Links
DAP1 Development Application Requirements
All DAP1 planning applications for development, whether seeking final or in-principle approval, must include the relevant site plan and architectural drawing information.
Site Plan Requirements
- Boundaries of the application site edged in red.
- All applicable minimum setback lines shown with an orange dashed line and labelled.
- Length of existing boundaries and area of the application site.
- Location and use of all existing structures on, and where practicable within 15 feet of, the application site.
- Location and use of all proposed structures.
- Existing and proposed grade, contours and spot heights.
- Existing and proposed drainage details.
- Location of existing and proposed parking and access arrangements.
- Location and dimensions of rights of way or easements.
- Existing and proposed landscaping.
- Location of any Conservation Area, Conservation Zone or Protection Area.
Architectural Drawing Requirements
- Floor plans, roof plans and foundation plans.
- Elevations of all affected sides of the building.
- Sections showing relationship to the site and surrounding grade.
- Dimensions and use of all rooms and units.
- Clear differentiation between existing and proposed works.
- External materials, finishes and colours.
Additional Requirements for Listed Buildings
- Existing drawings of the listed building.
- Schedule of demolition or removal works.
- Details of doors and windows proposed to be removed or replaced.
- Details of proposed replacement doors and windows.
- Street-scene elevations where major additions or new buildings are proposed.
DAP2 Subdivision Application Requirements
DAP2 subdivision applications may be submitted as either a draft or final plan of subdivision.
Draft Plan of Subdivision
- Existing lot boundaries shown in grey.
- Proposed lot boundaries shown in red.
- All applicable setback lines shown and labelled.
- Area and dimensions of proposed lots.
- Existing contours and grades.
- Existing and proposed vehicular access arrangements.
- Location of easements and rights of way.
- Existing structures and site features.
- Existing services and utilities.
Other Information That May Be Required
Ownership Certificate
- Written confirmation from the owner if the application is not submitted by the owner.
- Government acknowledgement for applications affecting Government land or seabed.
Neighbour Acknowledgements
Required where development is proposed within a setback to a shared boundary.
Grounds in Support
Required where the discretion of the Development Applications Board is sought.
Conservation Management Plan
May be required for development within or adjacent to Conservation Areas or Conservation Zones.
Fire Certificate
Certain larger or non-residential applications must be referred to the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service before submission.
Retroactive Planning Applications
If retroactive planning permission is being sought for development that has already commenced, additional information may be required.
Where the applicant considers that they were not responsible for the breach of planning control, or could not reasonably have been expected to know that the development was unauthorised, an affidavit or signed letter should be included.
Vetting of Applications and Payment
Applications are issued a reference number upon receipt.
The Department will normally issue an invoice within 24 hours.
Applications are not vetted until evidence of payment has been received.
Applications are vetted against the relevant DAP1 or DAP2 Vetting Checklist.
Applications that do not pass vetting may be rejected or returned for further information.
Once an application passes vetting, a site notice must be displayed and photographic evidence provided.
Advertising and Assessment
Following successful vetting and site notice confirmation, applications will be advertised in the online Official Gazette and assigned to a planning officer for assessment.
Track an Application
Applications can be tracked through the Customer Self Service Portal.
Letters of Objection or Representation
Letters of objection or representation should be emailed to:
Please include the relevant PLAN or SUB reference number in the subject line.
Contact and Further Information
Applications must be submitted online through Customer Self Service.
Email: planningfrontdesk@gov.bm
Further guidance notes, forms and planning information are available on the Department of Planning website.
Department of Planning
Seven Arches Building, 3rd Floor
44 Church Street
City of Hamilton HM12
Bermuda