The Ultimate Guide to Planning Permission for Extensions

Dreaming of extending your home? Before you start visualising your ideal space, there's one crucial step: navigating planning permission. Understanding UK planning regulations ensures your project starts on the right foot, avoiding costly delays or potential legal complications. While some smaller extensions fall under "permitted development" rights, most require formal approval from your local council. With the right knowledge and preparation, securing planning permission is achievable and well worth the effort!

What is Planning Permission?

In simple terms, planning permission is the official legal consent required from your local council to proceed with certain building projects. Councils have a responsibility to ensure all new developments adhere to building regulations, zoning restrictions, and that they don't negatively impact the appearance of the area or the lives of your neighbours.

When Do You Need Planning Permission?

A good rule of thumb is that the majority of extensions WILL require planning permission. This is especially true for projects that:

Extend significantly beyond the original rear wall of your property (limits vary depending on house type).
Exceed specific height limits (these also vary based on your property type).
Are within a conservation area, a listed building, or an area with other planning restrictions in place.

Permitted Development Rights

Certain smaller-scale projects may fall under "permitted development" rights, meaning you may NOT require formal planning permission. It's essential to check with your local council for precise allowances in your area. The government's Planning Portal website is a helpful resource: https://www.planningportal.co.uk/,

How to Apply for Planning Permission

While the process might seem daunting, let's break it down step by step:

Pre-Application Advice: While not strictly required, this optional step is highly recommended for larger or more complex extensions. Your council offers pre-application consultations where you can get initial feedback on your plans, potentially addressing issues before a formal submission.
Gathering Your Documents: To apply, you'll need detailed architectural drawings, site plans, location plans, and potentially other supporting documents. A qualified architect or architectural technologist is best equipped to create these to the required professional standard.
Submit Your Application: Most councils have an online planning portal where you submit the completed application form along with all your prepared documents. Each council has specific submission fees associated with this process.

Factors Impacting the Decision

When evaluating your application, councils consider:

Size and Design: How your extension fits in with the existing style of your home and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Potential Impact on Neighbours: Does it cause overshadowing, loss of privacy, or other detrimental impacts on those living nearby?
Local Planning Policies: Ensures your project aligns with the council's development plans and any specific restrictions within your area.

Tips for a Successful Application

Professional Drawings are Key: Clear, detailed architectural plans significantly improve your chances of approval. Councils can better assess the visual impact and overall suitability when plans are expertly prepared.
Consult with Neighbours: Discussing your plans early on can sometimes prevent formal objections later. If neighbours understand and support your project, the council will take this into consideration.
Design and Access Statement: This document explains the rationale behind your extension, justifying its design and demonstrating how you've considered potential concerns. A persuasive statement strengthens your application.

What to Do if Permission is Refused

Understanding the Reasons: The council should provide detailed reasons for their refusal. Carefully analyse these to determine if adjustments can address those concerns.
Appeals Process: You have the right to appeal the decision, but there are strict timeframes to consider.
Revising and Resubmitting: Often, it's wiser to modify your plans based on the council's feedback and resubmit a revised application.
Seeking Guidance: Contact your local planning department for advice on the best course of action if permission is initially denied.

Additional Considerations

Party Wall Agreements: If your extension impacts a shared wall with a neighbour, a Party Wall Agreement is needed. This is a separate legal document that protects both parties.
Building Regulations: Even if your extension falls under permitted development, you'll likely still need to ensure it complies with all relevant building regulations.

Why Work with Hatch Construction

Don't let planning permission feel overwhelming! Hatch Construction specialises in guiding clients through every step of the extension process. Our expertise extends from beautiful design to a thorough understanding of planning regulations. Visit our website https://www.hatch-construction.com/ or call us on 0203 797 1242 to start exploring your extension dreams today!