Do I need Planning Permission?
This blog is for if you are asking yourself ‘Do I need planning permission?’
Below are 6 factors that determine if you need planning permission.
1) Size
Detached houses can be extended up to 40 meters squared without seeking planning permission.
However, 40msq can be ground floor only or it can be built with 20msq on the ground and 20msq on first floor. Although, a semi detached or a terraced house will only be exempt to build 28msq on the ground floor and 12msq on the first floor.
Bare in mind, you have to include any previous add ons to the house after 1964 to your total floor area, in addition there are other criteria that determine if you need planning permission or not.
2) Location
An extension can only be exempt when built to the rear of a house.
No part of the extension can be projecting from the side of your house. When it comes to an existing garage there is an exception to this rule however.
The owner may be able to extend to the side of the house without planning permission only if the garage is attached to their house. Thus your extension may be exempt when converting your garage.
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3) Wall and roof height
In order for your extension to be exempt the extension’s gutters must not be higher than your existing house’s gutters and same is true for the roof. The new roof on the extension must not be higher than the existing roof height.
4) Protected structures
If you are unfortunate enough to be living in a protected structure or a listed building then none of the above apply therefore you will have to seek planning permission.
5) Demolition
If you have to demolish a wall that abuts a party wall or boundary wall that has a building on the other side of the wall, you will also have to apply for planning permission.
6) Planning Conditions
There are often conditions on houses within housing estates. Thus a planning condition from the original application can say that any extensions needs planning permission. Hence this overrules exempted development law.
In conclusion there are a number of factors that determine if you need planning permission. Furthermore the above outlines the main factors only. There may be an element to your extension that may cause an exception to exemption. Therefore, please seek advice from a professional before you commence with work.
Your next step is to familiarise yourself with the Planning Permission process and what it takes to get what you want granted.
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If you are confused as to what professional to get advice from then you should read this blog (link to “Engineer or Architect, who cares”)
We wish you the very best of luck with your project. We would love to hear from you, have you found this article useful? Or if you think it is pure nonsense. Have your say, comment below.
You can find more information on the Citizens Information site (link to “Citizens Information site”)
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