Do I need planning permission?

Questions people ask.

What is permitted development?

A set of national rules that let you extend a house without a planning application, within fixed limits on size, height and position. Flats and maisonettes do not have these rights.

How big can a rear extension be without planning?

A single-storey rear extension can usually come out 3m on a semi-detached or terraced house, or 4m on a detached house, up to 4m high. Through the larger home extension scheme that rises to 6m and 8m, after the council has asked your neighbours.

Does a loft conversion need planning permission?

Often not. A rear dormer or hip-to-gable adding up to 40m³ on a terraced house, or 50m³ on a semi or detached house, is usually permitted development. Mansards and dormers facing the street usually need planning.

What changes in a conservation area?

Side extensions, two-storey extensions, dormers and the larger home extension scheme are no longer permitted development. A small single-storey rear extension usually still is. Some streets also have an Article 4 direction, which removes further rights.

Should I get a Lawful Development Certificate?

It is optional, but recommended. It is the council’s written confirmation that the work is permitted development, and buyers and lenders often ask for it when you sell.

Do I still need building regulations approval?

Yes. Planning decides whether you can build it. Building regulations cover how it is built, and apply either way.