House upgrades that don’t require planning permission

James Doherty, principal planner, Boyer (an LRG company)

Has planning regulation become less stringent recently?

In theory it has become easier to obtain certain types of permission (for example adding an additional storey to your property) through permitted development rights (PDR). However, there are strict guidelines and criteria which you have to meet in order to obtain prior approval and whilst PDR is less stringent than a traditional full planning application, care must still be taken to ensure you fully comply with the legislation.

What home upgrades (the more surprising the better) can people do that don’t need planning permission (in the majority of circumstances) eg loft conversions, solar panels etc?

Prior approval through PDR allows you to make certain changes to your property without the need of full planning permission. These works include rear and side extensions, loft conversions, rear outbuildings, and porches as well as fences and solar panels. One of the newer permitted development rights is the right to extend your home upwards by one or two storeys, which is proving very popular in a number of locations.

When might people need to get planning permission for the above? (eg if live in AONB, Conservation Area)

If your property is listed or you live in a Conservation Area, AONB, a National Park or oi a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), you are unlikely to benefit from any homeowner permitted development rights. Additionally, some councils issue Article 4 Directions which remove certain permitted development rights within a specific area. Whilst rare, sometimes restrictive conditions can remove certain permitted development rights. These restrictive conditions will be added by the council to the original Decision Notice issued prior to construction of the original property. If any of these are the case for you, you will need to go down the full planning route.

 Anything else worth noting?

Whilst on the face of it, permitted development rights do offer homeowners an excellent opportunity to make home improvements or extend their homes, the legislation and guidance is quite strict on what is or isn’t allowed and consideration will also be given to factors such as the impact the proposal would have on the local area as well as any amenity impacts to neighbouring properties. If you are thinking of applying for permitted development, we would strongly encourage you to consult with an experienced planning consultant in the first instance.