ScaleDraw
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How to measure a planning application drawing
Planning drawings are published as PDFs, usually with a stated scale. Whether it's your own application or a neighbour's extension, you can check the key sizes yourself.
Download the drawing
Download the plan or elevation PDF from the council's planning portal.
Import it
On the board, open the menu and choose File → Import PDF….
Set the scale
If the title block says, for example, “1:100 at A3” and the PDF is A3, type the ratio when you calibrate. Otherwise, or as a check, calibrate on the scale bar or a written dimension.
Measure what matters
Typical checks are an extension's depth from the rear wall, its height on the elevation, and its distance to the boundary.
Things to know
- Many drawings say “do not scale”. Written dimensions take priority over anything measured, and measurements are a guide.
- Check that you're looking at the latest revision of each drawing.
- Planning drawings are someone else's copyright: measure them for your own use, but don't republish them.
Questions
Can I measure a site or location plan too?
Yes. Site plans are often 1:500 and location plans 1:1250; each picture keeps its own scale.
Is this good enough for an objection?
It's a good way to check figures, but the council will rely on the written dimensions and its own assessment.