Do I need planning permission for my project?

Whether you’re planning an extension, a loft conversion or just knocking down a wall, it’s important to know what kind of approval your work needs before you start.  

Not all developments need planning permission.

You can carry out certain types of home improvements with the need to apply for planning permission. These works can be covered by what are called 'permitted development rights'.

This allows you to carry out certain types of work - such as extensions, loft conversions or outbuildings – without planning permission as long as they meet specific rules about size, height, and location.

Examples:

• Single-storey rear and side extensions
• Internal alterations (non-structural)
• Replacing windows and doors (outside of conservation areas)
• Installing new rooflights or solar panels
• Adding a garden shed or outbuilding

Permitted development rights do not apply if your home is a flat, maisonette, listed building. There are fewer permitted development rights in conservation areas.

You should always check with the council before starting any work to make sure your plans comply. 

If you don't need planning permission we still encourage you to apply for a lawful development certificate (LDC). This is your proof that your household building work is lawful.

Projects that usually need planning permission

More substantial changes to your home will often need planning permission before work can begin. This may include larger extensions, changes to how a building is used, or works that could affect neighbours or the surrounding area.

Planning permission is normally required for:

• Building a new house or flat, including dividing an existing house into separate flats.
• Extensions or loft conversions that exceed permitted development limits.
• Adding a balcony, veranda or raised platform.
• Building an outbuildings or garage that exceeds permitted development.
• Major changes to the outside of a property, such as extensive cladding or significant alterations to the roof.
• Changing the use of a property, such as converting a home into flats or changing a commercial property into a home).
• Certain alterations to windows, doors or roofs, particularly in conservation areas or where permitted development rights are restricted.
• Any work to a listed building or that affects its setting. 
• Extensions or external alterations to a flat or maisonette, as these have more limited permitted development rights than houses

If your property is a listed building, you may also need listed building consent for works that affect its special architectural or historic character. This can include internal as well as external alterations, and may apply even where planning permission is not required. You should check whether consent is needed before starting any work.

Planning rules and local restrictions can vary from borough to borough. What is allowed in one area may not be permitted for your current home. 

Make sure you read our Residential Extensions and Alterations Supplementary Planning Document for more guidance and advice >>

Ask yourself:

• Will my work change how the building looks from the outside?
• Am I changing the use of part of the property?
• Will it affect shared walls or boundaries?
• Is my home listed or in a conservation area?
• Will it involve structural changes?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, you’ll likely need to apply for some level of planning permission or building control approval.

What to do next

If your project does need planning permission, you should familiarise yourself with the various types of planning applications may be required.