Environment Minister Martin Cullen has announced proposals aimed at simplifying the process of applying for planning permission.
Mr Cullen said he planned to introduce a standard form for submitting such applications early next year.
He said the move was designed to make the planning process more efficient, effective and "people-orientated" and said they would bring more clarity to the system.
The minister also said he was working to establish a system whereby planning applications could be submitted over the internet.