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Do I need planning permission for my extension?
If you're thinking about building an extension on your property, one of the first questions you'll need to ask is whether you need planning permission. Planning permission is a legal requirement in many cases, and if you don't obtain it before starting work, you may be forced to tear down the extension at your own expense.
So, how do you know whether your extension needs planning permission? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the extension, as well as any local planning regulations and restrictions that may apply.
Permitted Development Rights
In some cases, you may be able to build your extension without planning permission, thanks to something called permitted development rights. These rights allow homeowners to make certain types of changes to their properties without the need for planning permission, provided that certain criteria are met.
For example, under permitted development rights, you can typically build a single-story extension to the rear of your property that is no more than 4 meters in depth (or 3 meters if your property is semi-detached or terraced) . You can also build a double-story extension to the rear of your property that is no more than 3 meters in depth if you have 7m depth of garden.
It's worth noting that these limits apply to the original property as of 1948. If your property has been extended previously, these limits may be reduced. Additionally, there may be other criteria that you need to meet in order to qualify for permitted development rights, such as restrictions on the materials you can use or requirements for the appearance of the extension.
Local Planning Regulations
Even if your extension falls within the limits of permitted development rights, you may still need planning permission if there are specific local planning regulations that apply to your property. For example, if you live in a conservation area or a listed building, there may be additional restrictions on what you can do with your property.
Similarly, if your property is in an area with high flood risk, you may need to obtain planning permission in order to build an extension. This is because extensions can exacerbate the risk of flooding, which can have serious consequences for you and your neighbours.
Consulting a Professional
Given the complexity of planning regulations and the potential consequences of not obtaining planning permission, it's always a good idea to consult a professional before starting work on your extension. An architect or planning consultant can help you understand the local planning regulations that apply to your property, and can advise you on whether you need planning permission and how to obtain it if necessary.
In conclusion, whether or not you need planning permission for your extension depends on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the extension, local planning regulations, and the impact on your neighbours. While you may be able to build your extension under permitted development rights, it's always best to consult a professional to ensure that you're in compliance with all relevant regulations and requirements.
