Do I need planning permission?
The Government's
Planning Portal gives advice on planning permission for different types of work, including:
- extensions
- fences/gates
- garden walls
- changes to the use of land or buildings.
However we have additional controls over some developments, which are called Article 4 Directions. This means you will need planning permission for:
The Planning Portal also has useful interactive guides for a
terraced house and
semi-detached house. The guides show different types of work and whether they need permission from the council. There are also guides for:
If you want to build an extension you may need to work out its volume to find out if you need planning permission. The Planning Portal has a
volume calculator that you can use to do this.
Permitted development
'Permitted development' is work that does not need planning permission.
Getting a certificate from the council is important. If you do not have one, it may delay or affect the sale of your property later on.
Applying for planning permission
If you think you need permission, you may wish to use our
pre-application service before you make your application. There is a charge for this service.
Party walls
If you plan to do building work on your property, you will need to think about how it affects ‘party walls’ (those shared with other properties), boundary walls and any excavations (digging work) near neighbouring buildings. If your property is joined to another and you want more information, go to the
Planning Portal.
We do not deal with party wall disputes. If you are worried, you may want to ask a solicitor for advice. You can also contact the
Citizens Advice Bureau for more information.