Planning Policy

The Dartmoor Local Plan 2018-2036

The Dartmoor Local Plan 2018–2036 sets out the policies we use to determine planning applications across the National Park.  The Policies Map accompanies the Local Plan and is a spatial expression of some of the Local Plan policies. Both the Local Plan and the Policies Map should be read together.

If you want to find out more information on how we reviewed and adopted the Local Plan. Our background evidence and research section contains all the information which contributed to the production of the local plan.

Our supplementary planning documents provide guidance which is also a material consideration when we determine planning applications.

If you have any queries regarding the Local Plan or would like to order a copy please contact: forwardplanning@dartmoor.gov.uk

In some areas, a Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) also applies. Where this is the case, both the Local Plan and the relevant NDP policies are considered when making decisions.

Other policy and guidance we use

When assessing planning applications, we also consider:

• Dartmoor Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs)
• The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
• National Planning Practice Guidance (PPG)
• Site-specific plans and masterplans

All policies are supported by detailed evidence and research.

See our Planning Policy FAQs for answers to common queries about planning policy and the role of the Forward Planning team.

New climate change evidence

We’ve developed new evidence to help guide planning decisions on climate impacts. Read Dartmoor’s Greenhouse Gas Assessment, which measures the carbon footprint of resident and visitor activities across the National Park.

Monitoring

The performance of the Local Plan is monitored on a yearly basis. Our Authority Monitoring Reports consider the policy performance of the Local Plan across the National Park. The Infrastructure Funding Statement summarises financial and non-financial developer contributions for each year.

Timetable for the Local Plan Review

To ensure the Local Plan remains up to date it is reviewed regularly. The Local Development Scheme (LDS) is a public statement which sets out the ‘timetable’ for reviewing the Local Plan.

Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

The Statement of Community Involvement sets out how Dartmoor National Park Authority will consult and engage with local communities, businesses and public bodies when preparing new planning policy and guidance, and when determining planning applications.

The SCI has recently been updated to reflect current best practise. A Consultation Statement detailing the changes and feedback received can be found here.

While work is ongoing to improve our digital engagement tools, including reinstating web alerts for planning applications, we will continue to issue neighbour notification letters to ensure communities remain informed and able to participate effectively.

Custom and Self-build Housing

We have set-up a register of people who are interested in self-build or custom build projects in this area. For more information on building your own home and to register your interest visit our Self-Build webpage.