Planning Advice

ENCOMPASSING THE CHANGES TO THE PLANNING LEGISLATION - OCTOBER 2008

Before you start work, there are many alterations and additions, that may or may not, require planning permission from the local authority. Use these basic pointers as a guide to the planning system.

If planning is not required and your scheme falls under the following, then it is advised to apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development.

General

No more than 50% of the land around the ‘original’ house may be covered.
Maximum eaves height of an extension within 2.0m of a boundary is 3.0m.
Maximum eaves and ridge height of extension no higher than existing house.
Materials to be of similar appearance to existing house.
No verandas, balconies or raised platforms.
Fence or wall max 1.0m to front or 2.0m elsewhere.
Satellite dishes do not require planning.
Most solar panels are considered permitted development.
Insertion of roof windows do not require permission.
Security or CCTV systems.
Replacement or repair of windows and doors.
Rainwater goods repair.
Small house signs.
To replace or maintain roof fininsh.

Two-Storey

Side facing upper windows to be obscured glass and 1.70m above floor level.
Roof pitch to match existing house.
Two storey extensions no closer than 7.0m to rear boundary.

Rear Extensions

Maximum depth of a single storey 3.0m for attached property, and 4.0m for detached.
Maximum height of a single storey extension 4.0m (incl. roof).
Maximum depth of a two storey extension 3.0m.

Side Extension

Single storey only, maximum height 4.0m, and maximum width 50% of house.

Front Extension

Porch only - maximum 3.0 m2, maximum roof height of 3.0m and over 2.0m from a boundary with a highway.

Outbuildings and sheds

Max eaves height of 2.5m within 2.0m of boundary, max overall height of 4.0m.

NOTE:IF THE DEVELOPMENT DOES NOT FALL INTO THE ABOVE CATAGORIES THEN PLANNING PERMISSION WILL BE REQUIRED. Including;-

General

Wind turbines.

Designated land (ie. Conservation Area), No permitted development of rear extensions over single storey. No exterior cladding No side extensions

Other

No extension forward of the front or side elevation fronting a highway

Paving to front gardens

Driveways / hard standing in excess of 5 m2 will require planning permission unless it uses a porous or permeable surface (ie shingle) or surface water is directed to a lawn or other border to drain naturally.

Trees

Trees may be protected by Tree Preservation Orders, so permission or advice should be gained from your local authority.

Building Regulations

Most new works need to comply with Building Regulations, which deal with construction standards, health and safety. There are two methods to achieve Building Regulation consent:

Conditional application to be achieved prior to construction works commencing, and subject to regular inspections, with works fully signed off on completion.
Under a Building Notice served by the contractor on commencement of works, and subject to regular inspections.