Question 1

Do I need planning permission for a single storey extension?

Accepted Answer

Single storey rear extensions can be permitted development if they extend no more than 4 metres from the rear wall for detached houses, or 3 metres for semi-detached and terraced houses. The extension must not exceed 4 metres in height and must be built with materials similar in appearance to the existing house.

Question 2

What is permitted development?

Accepted Answer

Permitted development rights allow certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application. These rights are set out in the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) and apply to most houses in England.

Question 3

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Accepted Answer

Loft conversions can be permitted development under Class B if they don't exceed 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses, or 40 cubic metres for terraced houses. The roof extension must not be higher than the existing roof, must not extend beyond the plane of the existing roof slope facing the highway, and materials must be similar in appearance.

Question 4

Do I need planning permission for a garden shed?

Accepted Answer

Garden sheds and outbuildings can be permitted development under Class E if they're single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres. If within 2 metres of a boundary, maximum overall height is 2.5 metres. Otherwise, maximum height is 4 metres for dual-pitched roofs or 3 metres for other roofs. The building must not cover more than 50% of the garden area.

Question 5

Do I need planning permission for a porch?

Accepted Answer

Porches are permitted development under Class D if the floor area doesn't exceed 3 square metres, the height doesn't exceed 3 metres, and no part is within 2 metres of any boundary that fronts a highway.

Question 6

Does permitted development apply in conservation areas?

Accepted Answer

Permitted development rights are more restricted in conservation areas, National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Broads. For example, roof extensions and cladding require planning permission, and side extensions have additional restrictions.

Question 7

How do I apply for planning permission? Can I avoid Planning Portal fees?

Accepted Answer

If you need planning permission, you can either apply online through the Planning Portal (which charges an administration fee) or download paper forms from the Planning Portal website and submit them directly to your Local Planning Authority. Submitting paper forms directly to your LPA bypasses the Planning Portal administration charge, saving you money while paying the same statutory council fees.

Question 8

What is a Lawful Development Certificate?

Accepted Answer

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is an official document from your local planning authority confirming that your proposed development is permitted development and doesn't require planning permission. While not legally required, it provides certainty and can be useful when selling your property.

Question 9

Do permitted development rights apply to flats?

Accepted Answer

No, the permitted development rights under Part 1 of the GPDO only apply to houses, not flats or maisonettes. If you live in a flat, you'll generally need planning permission for external alterations.

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