Planning Permission

If you have clicked here it may be because you would like to add an extension to your home but are unsure if you need planning permission. Maybe you do require planning permission but are unsure where to start. Well, don’t worry we can get you started.

If you answer yes to any of the statements below you WILL probably need planning permission.

For Single Storey Extensions you will need planning permission if:

  • You are planning to build on designated land.
  • Your extension (including previous extensions) exceeds 50% of the total area of land around the original house. The term “original house” refers to how the house stood in 1948. Sheds and other outbuildings must be included.
  • Your extension is to be built at the front of the property and facing a highway.
  • You wish to change the materials used for the exterior work. This rule does not include conservatories.
  • Your extension is to exceed more than half the width of the original house.
  • Your extension is to exceed 4 meters in height.
  • Your extension is within 2 meters of a boundary and the eaves are to exceed 3 meters in height.
  • Your extension extends more than 3 meters from your original semi-detached house or 4 meters if a detached house.
  • Your rear extension exceeds more than a total of 4 meters in height.
  • The eaves and ridge of the roof are higher than the original house.

For Double Storey Extensions you will need planning permission if:

  • Your extension does not meet any of the rules for the single storey extensions.
  • Your extension is at the rear and it is within 7 meters of the rear boundary.
  • You wish to construct a different roof pitch to that of the existing house.
  • You wish to install windows to the side of the extension without obscure glass or with openings lower than 1.7 meters above the floor in which they are fitted.
  • You wish to install a balcony or veranda.

So, if you answered yes to any of the statements above you WILL probably need planning permission.

If you would like to build an extension to your home and think that you may need planning permission then contact us by filling in the form to the left or calling the number at the top of the page. We will be happy to guide you through this process.

The statements above are condensed and aimed to offer you a quick guide into planning. If you require further information about planning permission please visit the planning portal on the web address below.

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk

Click here to go back to the top of the Planning Permission page