This short paper shows how the BRE Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) and the Code for Sustainable Homes are being used by local authorities to deliver their sustainable development objectives through the planning system. It outlines the findings of the workshop 'Sustainability through planning', held at BRE on 17th July 2007, a chance for local authority planners to discuss how to encourage sustainable housing through the planning system. The paper summarises the topics that are covered in more detail in BR498.