New relaxed planning rules for homeowners

Long gone are the days of waiting months, if not years, for your beautiful new kitchen extension.

What was once a slow and stressful process, is now a piece of cake. With the new relaxed planning permission rules, extensions and renovation works are now granted automatic planning permission under a scheme called 'Permitted Development'.

What is Permitted Development?

Permitted Development is part of a new Government housing shake-up which gives homeowners an automatic grant to undertake certain types of work on their property – so no more planning applications.

Who benefits?

House owners will be able to benefit from the abolishment of planning permissions as most houses have permitted development rights, however, flats and maisonettes do not, so planning permission will still be needed for these types of properties.

What will I be able to do?

While you'll still need to check, Permitted Development should provide house owners with automatic planning permissions for:

• A small extension
• Single and double storey extensions
• Loft conversion
• Garage conversion
• Basement conversion
• A porch (if it is less than 3m³)

So if lockdown has forced you to consider getting a home office, or perhaps you’ve always wanted a bigger porch to dump your coats and umbrellas – whatever type of extension it is, now could be your chance.

Are there any restrictions?

Areas that are not covered by Permitted Development rights include:

• Balconies
• Verandas
• Platforms (if above 30cm)
• Conservation areas
• Listed buildings

It’s important that you check with your local planning authority on the latest rules, as these tend to be updated quite regularly.

To check if your project qualifies for Permitted Development rights, go to the government’s useful planning portal, where you’ll be able to check whether you need planning permission.