House Extensions Planning Permission

House Extensions Planning Permission: A Comprehensive Guide

A house extension can be a great way to add space and value to your home. However, before you start planning your extension, it's important to make sure that you have the necessary planning permission in place. ### What is Planning Permission? Planning permission is a type of authorization that is granted by the local planning authority (LPA) before you can carry out certain types of development work. This includes building work, such as extensions and alterations, as well as changes of use, such as converting a garage into a habitable room. ### Do I Need Planning Permission for My House Extension? In some cases, you may not need planning permission for your house extension. This is known as permitted development. Permitted development rights allow you to carry out certain types of development work without having to apply for planning permission. The following types of house extensions are usually permitted development: * Single-storey rear extensions up to 4 meters deep * Double-storey rear extensions up to 3 meters deep * Side extensions up to 2 meters wide * Front extensions up to 3 meters deep * Roof extensions that do not increase the overall height of the house by more than 2 meters However, there are a number of factors that can affect whether or not you need planning permission for your house extension. These include: * The size and scale of the extension * The location of the extension * The impact of the extension on the appearance of the house * The impact of the extension on the surrounding area If you're not sure whether or not you need planning permission for your house extension, you can contact your local planning authority for advice. ### How to Apply for Planning Permission If you do need planning permission for your house extension, you will need to submit a planning application to your local planning authority. The planning application will need to include a number of documents, including: * A completed planning application form * A site plan * A floor plan * An elevation drawing * A section drawing * A design and access statement The planning application will also need to be accompanied by a fee. The fee will vary depending on the size and scale of the extension. ### What Happens After I Submit My Planning Application? Once you have submitted your planning application, the LPA will have 8 weeks to make a decision. The LPA can approve the application, reject it, or grant it with conditions. If the LPA approves your application, you will be issued with a planning permission. The planning permission will set out the conditions that you must comply with when building your extension. ### What Happens if My Planning Application is Rejected? If your planning application is rejected, you can appeal the decision. The appeal will be heard by an independent planning inspector. The planning inspector will make a decision based on the evidence presented by you and the LPA. ### How Long Does It Take to Get Planning Permission? The time it takes to get planning permission can vary depending on the LPA and the complexity of the application. However, it usually takes between 8 and 12 weeks to get a decision. ### How Much Does It Cost to Get Planning Permission? The cost of getting planning permission can vary depending on the size and scale of the extension. However, the average cost is around £1,000. ### Conclusion Getting planning permission for a house extension can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, it's important to remember that planning permission is essential if you want to build an extension that is compliant with the law. If you're not sure whether or not you need planning permission, you can contact your local planning authority for advice.