Planning Permission
In some cases you are allowed to build extensions and buildings without planning permission. This is called permitted development. For anything else you have to apply for planning permission. Permitted Development Rights have been removed for many people living on modern housing estates, especially where the gardens are small or the site is prominent.
What is or is not allowed is specified in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order. If you are in any doubt, your local Planning Department will be happy to advise you.
Examples of permitted development (subject to size restrictions)
In most of these examples you will need Building Regulations approval.
- Some small single storey extensions to the side or rear of houses
- Loft extensions without dormer windows
- Loft extensions with small dormers not looking out onto a road or public highway
- Some detached outbuildings more than 5 metres from the house
Planning Permission is about how a building looks in relation to its surroundings and the possible effect it could have on neighbours or the neighbourhood. Your neighbours are consulted about your application and have the right to object.
Decisions are made by Planning Officers and in some cases may be made by the Planning Committee. If your application is refused, you can appeal.
Adrian Forber Planning Services aims to avoid refused applications by getting it right in the first place and by encouraging compromise.