Changes to planning regulations for homeowners
From October 2008 the majority of homeowners no longer need to get planning permission when extending their existing homes. Other common building projects like fitting solar panels or converting a garage are also easier to carry out following changes to planning regulations.
How do you benefit from the changes?
The changes let you carry out some types of building work without needing to pay up to 1000 for planning permission.
If youre a homeowner, and the building project you want to carry out meets certain conditions, you could save both time and money.
What are the changes to permitted development rights?
Permitted development rights are minor changes to your home such as fitting an alarm box which you dont need planning permission for. These rights have been clarified and extended to cover more building projects.
Extensions
You do not need planning permission for an extension (or building a conservatory) as long as it meets certain conditions. For more information, follow the links below.
Loft conversions
You dont need planning permission for a loft conversion as long as it meets certain conditions. For more information follow the link below.
Paving front gardens
If you pave over your front garden, and the area is constructed using a material that lets water soak into the ground, you wont need planning permission. You will need planning permission to lay traditional impermeable driveways of more than five square metres that allow rainwater to run off onto roads, which may contribute to flooding.
Garage conversions
Planning permission will not usually be needed, as long as the work is internal and does not involve enlarging the building.
Changes to other common building projects
There are other building projects which have had changes to permitted development regulations such as:
- conservatories
- solar panels
- outbuildings like greenhouses, and sheds
- roof alterations
For information on these building projects and to use an interactive, visual guide on planning and building regulations, follow the links below.
If you are unsure whether planning permission is needed
If you build something which does need planning permission without getting permission first, you may have to put things right later, which could prove costly. If you are in any doubt, contact the planning department of your local authority.
More useful links
- Repairs, planning and building regulations
- Being greener at home
This content is subject to Crown Copyright
- Source:
- DirectGov
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