Permitted Development: What Can Be Achieved

For more detail on Permitted Development, visit our 2024 Guide: A Guide to Home Improvement without Planning Permission.

What are Permitted Development Rights?

So, what is permitted development? Permitted development rights are an automatic grant of planning permission that allow specific building works to be carried out without the need for a full planning application.

These rights apply to homeowners in England and provide a more straightforward and efficient alternative to the traditional planning permission process. It's important to note that permitted development rights do not apply to flats, maisonettes, or certain types of commercial properties.

Additionally, designated areas such as conservation areas, national parks, and areas of outstanding natural beauty have more restricted permitted development rights. If you live in one of these areas, you may need to apply for planning permission for certain types of work or begin by speaking to a local architect.

Benefits and Considerations of Permitted Development

Permitted development rights offer several advantages to homeowners, making them an attractive option for home improvement projects. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Time and Cost Savings: By bypassing the lengthy planning permission process, you can save both time and money on your home renovation project.
2. Certainty: Permitted development rights provide a level of certainty as they grant automatic planning permission for specific works, eliminating the risk of refusal.
3. Flexibility: The range of projects covered by permitted development rights is extensive, including small extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions, and more.
4. Ease of Process: Unlike the traditional planning permission route, permitted development rights follow a set of predetermined rules and regulations, making the process simpler and more straightforward.

However, there are important considerations to keep in mind when utilising permitted development rights. It's crucial to adhere to the specific guidelines and limitations set by the government to ensure your project remains within the scope of permitted development. Additionally, it's recommended to consult with your Local Planning Authority to confirm any restrictions or requirements that may apply to your property.

Types of Projects Covered by Permitted Development

Permitted development rights encompass a wide range of home improvement projects. Here are some of the key projects that can be undertaken without the need for planning permission:

1. House Extensions

House extensions are a popular choice for homeowners looking to increase living space. Permitted development rights allow for various types of extensions, including rear extensions, side extensions, and wraparound extensions. The key restrictions for house extensions under permitted development include:

• Rear extensions must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 meters for attached houses or 4 meters for detached houses.
• Side extensions must not face a highway and must be less than 50% of the width of the original house.
• Wraparound extensions must meet the criteria for both rear and side extensions individually.

2. Loft Conversions

Converting your loft into usable living space is another popular home improvement project. Permitted development rights allow for loft conversions, subject to certain conditions:

• The loft extension must not exceed 50 additional cubic meters.
• The roof pitch of the principal part of the dwelling must be the same as the existing roof pitch.
• Windows in any wall or roof slope forming a side elevation of the dwelling house are not permitted.

3. Garage Conversions

Converting a garage into a functional space, such as a bedroom, living room, or home office, can be achieved under permitted development rights. However, it's important to note that if you plan to change a detached garage into a living space, planning permission may be required.

4. Demolition

Permitted development rights also cover demolition works, allowing homeowners to demolish certain structures without the need for planning permission. However, it's essential to consult with your Local Planning Authority to ensure compliance with specific guidelines and regulations.

5. Changes of Use

Under permitted development rights, certain changes of use can be made without the need for planning permission. This includes converting agricultural buildings into residential dwellings or changing commercial properties to residential use. However, it's important to note that each change of use has its own set of requirements and limitations, so it's advisable to seek guidance from professionals.

6. Other Permitted Development Projects

In addition to the projects mentioned above, permitted development rights cover a variety of other works, such as installing solar panels, satellite dishes, rooflights or dormer windows, new doors or windows, and constructing driveways using porous materials. Each project has specific guidelines and limitations that must be followed to ensure compliance with permitted development rights.

Recent Changes and Additional Information

It's important to stay updated on recent changes and developments regarding permitted development rights. The government regularly reviews and updates the regulations, which may impact the scope and limitations of permitted development. Additionally, local planning authorities may issue Article 4 directions to restrict or remove certain permitted development rights in specific areas. It's recommended to consult with your Local Planning Authority to confirm the applicability of permitted development rights to your property and any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply.

Seeking Professional Advice

Navigating the intricacies of permitted development rights can be complex, especially considering the variations in regulations between different areas and property types. To ensure your project is in compliance with the latest regulations and to receive expert guidance, it's advisable to consult with professionals such as architects or planning consultants.

Our service at Space That Inspires offers an affordable and non-committal consultations with experienced architects, providing an opportunity to discuss your specific property or project and address any questions or concerns you may have.

You can also speak with a planning consultant, but this process is much more difficult due to the current climate of local authorities.

Conclusion

Permitted development rights provide homeowners with a valuable opportunity to enhance their properties without the need for planning permission. These rights offer time and cost savings, certainty, and flexibility, making them an attractive option for various home improvement projects.

However, it's essential to understand the specific guidelines and limitations associated with permitted development rights and to seek professional advice when necessary. By staying informed and ensuring compliance with regulations, you can successfully navigate the permitted development process and transform your home to meet your needs and aspirations.

For more information on Permitted Development Rights, see our 2024 Guide to Home Improvement without Planning Permission.