What is Permitted Development?
Permitted Development is often discussed by our clients, especially at the
beginning of a new project. Here we are going to outline the differences between
Permitted Development and Planning Permission.
Permitted Development and Planning Permission
Most people are aware that Planning Permission is often required for a new build
extension. However, sometimes they may not know that some smaller types of
building development that fall within certain parameters are regarded as
‘Permitted Development’. This means that the project may go ahead without
going through the Planning Permission process. Regulations still have to be
followed of course – for example, the new extension or addition must not take up
more than a certain percentage of the size of the original garden when the house
was built. As a very general view, Permitted Development allows homeowners to
extend their living spaces without the process of obtaining Planning Permission,
provided the rules of Permitted Development are followed. Larger projects, such
as conservatory style, single storey rear extensions can be subject to a
neighbour consultation scheme, regarding the effects of a new building on their
homes concerning light, access and so on. Professional advice is always a huge
advantage and our Architects are there to help our clients achieve their ideal
refurbishment.
It may be that they would like extra kitchen and dining space, an
extra bedroom and shower room in the loft or a more enjoyable rear garden view.
Our experts can design the project whilst adhering to the requirements of
Permitted Development, but if the project exceeds those requirements, can apply
for Planning Permission via the Local Authority. As with any development project,
Local Authority Planning Officers can offer advice, often regarding similar
projects in the area. There is also the opportunity to apply for Pre-Application
Advice, which we’ve mentioned before in a previous Journal feature here.
Quick Reference
There are a few general rules for Permitted Development that allow homeowners
and architects to have a broad view of what is and is not allowed. One of the
most easily understood is that a new extension is not allowed to take up more
than 50% of the curtilage of the house. The curtilage is the garden and
surrounding land within the boundary of the house and includes existing and
proposed outbuildings, as well as existing and proposed extensions. The
significant date is 1948, with extensions built before then taken into account so
this has relevance to many period homes. The height of a new building must also
adhere to Permitted Development regulations, for example, the height of the
‘new’ eaves is not allowed to be higher than the original eaves. Other Permitted
Development rules cover the addition of a porch to the front of a house and loft
conversions, including the addition of dormer windows. Permitted Development
Rights originate from the Government, and Planning Permission is awarded by
the relevant Local Authority.
The Details
Click here for an overview of Permitted Development Rights on the Government’s
Planning Portal. For a more detailed guide with information and examples of
different structures, take a look at the technical guide here. Our team knows that
extensions, kitchen conservatories, garden rooms and other buildings can be a
difficult subject – everyone wants to make the most of their home and its
surrounding land. However, this has to be done with consideration for their
neighbours and the enjoyment of their homes and gardens. Adhering to
Permitted Development rules and applying for Planning Permission when
required is part of the process that our team will go through for our clients, to
help them achieve the desired outcome for their architectural project.
Have a project in mind?
