Cookie policy

Cookies and similar technologies used on Planning Guard.

Last updated: 28 March 2026

Note: This policy should be reviewed with your legal adviser. Cookie names can vary slightly by Auth.js / Next.js version; update the table after you inspect your browser’s dev tools in production.

1. What are cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device. We also use similar technologies (e.g. local storage for your cookie consent choice). Together we refer to these as “cookies” where the effect is similar.

2. How we use cookies

We group cookies as follows:

Essential — required for security, sign-in, load balancing, or core functionality. These do not depend on optional consent under UK ePrivacy guidance for strictly necessary purposes, but we still disclose them.
Analytics — help us understand usage (e.g. page views). Only used if you opt in; we may add a provider later.
Marketing — used for advertising or remarketing if we add such tools. Only used if you opt in.

3. Cookie and storage inventory (typical)

Exact names and lifetimes can change with software updates. Use your browser’s developer tools → Application → Cookies to confirm.

Technology	Purpose	Category	Duration
Auth session cookie (e.g. names starting with authjs, next-auth, or __Secure-)	Keeps you signed in; CSRF / callback protection	Essential	Session or up to ~30 days (matches session settings)
Stripe cookies (on checkout)	Fraud prevention and payment session (Stripe)	Essential / payment security	Set by Stripe; see stripe.com/legal/cookies
localStorage key "pg-cookie-consent"	Stores your cookie preference choices	Essential (preference storage)	Until you clear site data or we bump consent version
Future analytics (e.g. _ga)	Usage statistics	Analytics	Per provider; only if you consent

4. Managing preferences

When you first visit, our banner lets you Reject non-essential, Accept all, or Customise. You can reopen choices anytime via Cookie settings in the site footer.

You can also block or delete cookies in your browser settings; blocking essential cookies may break sign-in or checkout.

5. Third parties

Payment pages may set cookies controlled by Stripe. Council and government sites we link to have their own policies.

6. More information

For how we use personal data, see our Privacy policy. For site rules, see Terms & conditions.