Is my project permitted development?

You can do certain types of building work without applying for planning permission. This is called permitted development.

Permitted Development guidance

The Planning Portal outlines the latest guidance:

Permitted Development Rights - guidance on the Planning Portal

Common projects

Check the Planning Portal to see if you need planning permission for common projects like:

• extensions
• garage conversions
• outbuildings
• solar panels
• other renewable energy sources

Common projects (Planning Portal)  

Building Control

Whilst you may not need planning permission for the above projects, there is still a legal requirement to get building regulations approval for works involving structural changes, such as extensions, garage conversions and some outbuildings. A building control application must be submitted prior to work commencing on site.

Make an application or find out more about building control.

Further guidance

For further information on whether you will need planning permission, please read the permitted development rights for householders –technical guidance, which has been published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

We are not able to offer informal advice on individual projects. If you believe your project falls within your properties permitted development rights you can obtain the council's formal opinion by submitting a Lawful Development Certificate for assessment.

If you require general advice or assistance regarding an application you can refer to this list of local Qualified Planning Professionals.

Article 4 Directions

We can remove permitted development rights for a property or an area by issuing an Article 4 Direction. This means that works that may have been deemed permitted development will require planning permission. See Article 4 Directions in Waverley.