Wondering if you need planning permission for your extension? Extension planning rules vary depending on a range of factors, so it’s essential to ensure you have the correct permission for your specific project. We’ve compiled some key information to help ensure your build is compliant and minimise the risk of costly mistakes.
This guide provides an overview of what to expect when seeking planning permission for your extension. However, we recommend consulting with our party wall surveyors in Chelmsford for in-depth advice tailored to your specific project.
Who grants planning permission?
Under the 1948 Town and Country Planning Act, your local authority has the power to say whether or not you can carry out your extension or renovation. The aim is to make sure that your project meets health and safety standards, adheres to the local area’s planning policies, and won’t negatively affect the surrounding area or your neighbours.
Do you need planning permission for extensions?
In a nutshell, you need planning permission for some extensions but not others. The key is understanding the difference between planning permission and permitted development rights.
What is permitted development?
Permitted development (PD) allows you to alter your property without having to apply for planning permission. For your plans to count as permitted development, they generally need to:
1) Fall within size limits
2) Meet height restrictions
3) Be within a certain distance of a boundary
4) Not extend beyond a certain point
5) Look similar to the original building
For example, if you want to add a single-storey rear extension to a semi-detached house, the depth must be a maximum of 3m. If the extension is within 2m of a boundary, then the eaves cannot be higher than 3m.
The rules tend to be very strict, so it’s best to seek help from an architect if you’re unsure whether your idea will count as permitted development.
When you need planning permission for your house extension
If your extension designs don’t meet the requirements for permitted development, don’t panic. You still have a good chance of being able to carry out the project — there may just be a couple of extra steps needed to secure planning permission before you can go ahead.
What does full planning permission entail?
If your plans exceed the height, depth, or any other features of permitted development, you can apply for full planning permission. To do this, you’ll need to:
1) Contact your local authority to determine if a planning application is required.
2) Fill out the application (which will require a fee) and submit your extension plans, along with any supporting documentation. You’ll usually need to submit location and site plans to highlight where your extension will be; a certificate to prove you own or lease the property; and designs, plans, and technical drawings of your proposed extension.
3) Your local authority will then assess your application. They will display a notice of your work so that neighbours have the opportunity to dispute the plans if they feel your extension may have a negative effect on their property (for instance, if your extension might block their view).
4) Your local authority can then grant you planning permission to carry out your extension.
Other planning permission types
Although full planning permission is typically regarded as the most significant step in obtaining approval for your extension, there are other applications you may need to consider.
1) Building Regulations approval
After securing planning permission (or PD), you’ll need to show that your project meets current UK Building Regulations. This is done by submitting a building regulation application to the local authority or an approved inspector. There are two options:
- Full Plans Application: The Building Control Authority will review detailed drawings before deciding whether to proceed or not.
- Building Notice: This is a fast-track option allowing you to start work on your extension within 48 hours. If your work doesn’t meet the regulations, however, you could face issues down the line.
2) The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
The CDM Regulations (Health and Safety matters) apply to all building and construction works in the UK, including extensions. They outline that you must:
- Provide all involved with the project the necessary pre-construction health and safety information.
- Implement a Construction Phase Health and Safety Plan before work starts (in some cases).
- Appoint a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor if there are multiple contractors on site.
- Ensure your project is managed safely throughout.
If your project is for a property you plan to rent out or turn into a business, you will have more responsibilities under these regulations.
3) The Party Wall etc. 1996 Act
Another permission that is important to be aware of is the Party Wall Act of 1996. This stipulates that if your extension will affect a party wall — one which sits on a shared boundary — then you’ll need to secure a party wall agreement. To get this legally binding document, you need to serve any adjoining neighbours with a party wall notice.
There are three types of notice:
- Section 1: Line of Junction notice: If you are constructing an extension up to the boundary (the line of junction) or across the boundary as a new party wall.
- Section 3: Party Structure notice: If you are undertaking any work to a party wall, party fence wall, or party structure.
- Section 6: 3-metre or 6-metre notice: If your extension requires you to excavate within 3m of and to a lower depth than your neighbours’ foundations or within 6m, you’ll need to serve a Section 6 notice.
Your neighbour then has the right to consent to your work or dispute it. If they dispute it, a party wall surveyor will be appointed to resolve the issue and draw up a Party Wall Agreement that all parties are happy with.
Learn more about party wall disputes and see how our party wall surveyors in Essex and London can help resolve them fairly and amicably.
What about listed buildings and homes in conservations areas?
If your property is listed or in a conservation area, you will likely need additional permission via a Listed Building Application or Conservation Area Consent.
Support and guidance from Robert Turner Associates
We recognise that navigating planning permission can feel confusing. Our team of trained professionals is on hand to offer architectural services in Essex, including handling planning permission applications, so you don’t have to.
If you need a party wall surveyor in London or the surrounding areas, we can also offer expert services.
For more advice, visit our knowledge hub and don’t hesitate to contact us for support with planning applications.
