Planning Permission Guide

Planning Permission is controlled by your local planning authority and works differently in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find information about your locality here.

Though there are exceptions to certain types of building work, you will generally need to obtain planning permission when building something new, making a major change to a building, or changing a buildings usage – from say residential to commercial use.
 

When you Don’t Need Planning Permission

For private homes, there are some smaller and less intrusive building projects that fall within your Permitted Development Rights. It is always worth remembering that by staying within your PD rights, you can save yourself the time and hassle of dealing with Planning Permission at all.

These permissions can vary dependent on your location so we advise that you check with your local planning authority. Additionally these rights are only applicable to the original property and you will need to check if previous works have been carried out before you commit to building.
 

Extensions & Conservatories

You are permitted to undertake a single storey extension of up to 8 metres to the rear of your property. You cannot extend over more than half of your garden area, and you are not permitted to extend beyond the front border of your home without permission.

At all times an extension must be constructed to match your existing property.
 

Sheds & Outbuildings

Single storey Sheds or Outbuildings are permitted with restrictions in height or the use of windows, verandas or balconies that may cause privacy issues with neighbouring properties.

Again, you are not allowed to cover more than half of the original garden space.
 

Porches

You are allowed to build a porch on your property as long as it is further than 2 metres from the highway and all property boundaries.

The porch must be limited to a maximum of 3 square metres.
 

Loft Conversions

Loft spaces can be converted into additional living spaces but there are conditions of the use of windows and dormers that you will need to be aware of.
 

Applying for Planning Permission

Applications can be made online or via your local planning authority. Only the building owner can apply for planning permission, and there are conditions around certain property types such as flats or listed buildings. 

Depending upon the type of work you wish to undertake, the planning permission process can be lengthy and can also be delayed by numerous external factors, such as neighbours contesting the application.

Please also be warned, the message is very clear that if you undertake work that would have required permission, you may be served an enforcement notice that will order you to undo all changes you have made.

This is why we always advise looking into planning permission as early as possible when considering any building project.
 

How Long Does Planning Permission Take

Most standard planning permission applications take around 6 to 8 weeks to receive a decision, however larger construction projects can take considerably longer.

If planning permission is required for your project then it is advised to make your application as detailed as possible in order to gain approval. This can include drawings, surveys and supporting information around the local impact. All of this will add time to the total process and in many cases your planning permission could take a matter of months. 

Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and takes many considerations into account, such as impact on the immediate and local area, or how the proposed building will fit in with surroundings.