Edale is located within the High Peak Borough but planning is controlled by the Peak District National Park Authority since the village is within the National Park.

Planning restrictions are relatively strict with many of the permitted development rights enjoyed by the rest of England and Wales being unavailable.  Edale, like most Peak District villages is within its own conservation area restricting works to be in a particular style as stated in the conservation area listing and the design guide issued by the PDNPA.

Permission is required for many items that would otherwise be taken for granted in urban areas; replacement windows, loft conversions, satellite dishes and other seemingly basic changes need approval from the PDNPA through the planning process.

All local applications are sent through Parish Council although this is more of a procedural step and the majority of the application is under the PDNPA’s guidance.  Planning applications for Edale appear in the minutes of the Parish Council meetings with full details available on the PDNPA website.