If anyone applies for planning permission to carry out work they will have to formally notify neighbouring owners and occupiers that they are doing so (those who qualify as neighbours are defined in planning regulations). If a planning application has been submitted relating to a property adjacent (or in certain circumstances near) to your own property you will be notified by the applicant.

A weekly list of planning applications registered and decided is available to view

Particularly sensitive planning applications will be advertised on a weekly basis in the 'Public Notices' section of the local press (The East Lothian Courier, The East Lothian News and The Musselburgh News). 'Sensitive' applications include those affecting Conservation Areas or Listed Buildings, departures from the Local Plan or those which propose 'bad neighbour' development.

If you want to find out more about any planning application you can look at the Register of Applications which is kept at the Environment Reception. Individual planning applications are available for public inspection from the date that they are received, if you have any problem understanding these the Planning Officers will be happy to explain them to you. Older planning applications may also be inspected but only by prior arrangement.

Anyone can object to or comment on a planning application. You should write to the Head of Environment giving your name and address, saying which application you are commenting on and why you think permission should or should not be given. You must send your comments as soon as possible as a time limit is set for their receipt (generally 14 days from the date of neighbour notification and either 14 or 21 days from the date of advertisement in the press).