Frequently Asked Questions

The Planning Portal operates a frequently asked questions (FAQ) database so that users can find solutions to common questions and submit new queries to the support team for an answer.

To enter the FAQ database use the button above (this will launch the database in a new window). Alternatively, you can click the 'Help' button in the top right-hand corner of most portal pages which also contains a link to the database.

Contact the Planning Portal

For contact information, please use the 'Contact Us' link on the bottom bar of the site.

PDF documents

The PDF file format is a common internet file format (PDF stands for Portable Document Format). It is commonly used for government publications, leaflets and forms.

Viewing PDF files

To view a PDF file you have two options. You can download a program called Acrobat Reader and install it onto your computer. The program is available free of charge from the Adobe site.

The second option is to use an online PDF conversion tool. You can visit the Adobe website, type in the address of a PDF file and get it to translate the file into a more readable format while you wait. Or you can email the address of the file (or the file itself) to Adobe, and they will email a translation back. These translations of the files may not be as clearly formatted as the original PDF file.

Download Adobe Reader (opens new window)

Convert a PDF file online (opens new window)

PDF files and browsers

You can configure your web browser to open PDF files either within the browser window or in Adobe Reader. There are detailed instructions on the Acrobat website on how to do so for different browsers.

Configure your browser for Adobe Reader (opens new window)

Are PDF files accessible?

PDF file standards have improved over the years and have become more accessible through technologies like screen readers, navigation through the keyboard and enhanced screen viewing. The Adobe site provides information on how best to use these features. You may come across earlier versions of PDF files which are not so accessible.

Visit the Adobe 'accessibility resource centre' here.