Back arrow, pointing left

Can I change my house to a shop with a flat above?

Yes, but this type of conversion will require full planning permission. This is because you’d be changing the use of the ground floor from residential to commercial (typically to a use class such as E), while the upper floor would remain as a residential flat (Class C3). The change of use triggers the need for planning approval.  

Find out more about change of use

Common Questions

Do I need planning permission to put up a fence, gate or garden wall?

You will not need to apply for planning permission if you wish to erect a new; or alter, maintain, improve or take down* an existing fence, wall or gate if certain conditions are met. If any of the conditions are not met, then you will need to apply for planning permission.

Find out about the limits and conditions for fences, gates and walls.

Fences, walls and gates do not require building regulation approval. Even though building regulations do not apply, the structures must be structurally sound and maintained.

If you share a wall with a neighbour, it may be classed as a ‘party fence wall’.

Do I need planning permission to run an Airbnb or bed and breakfast?

Planning permission is not required if the home will be used as a short-term let for 90 days or less throughout the year.

If you plan on using the home as a short-term let for more than this time period, then you will need to apply for planning permission for a change of use.

If you rent a room in your property while you still live there, you will not require planning permission.

Can I use an outbuilding as a home office?

Yes, in most cases you can use an outbuilding as a home office without needing planning permission. As long as the use remains incidental to the main dwelling it is still considered part of your domestic residential use.

Read more about outbuildings

Do I need planning permission to add air conditioning to my home?

Adding air conditioning to your home is considered permitted development provided all the limits and conditions set out in legislation are met. The limits set out the size, placement and quantity of air conditioning units allowed.

If your home is in a protected area such as a Conservation Area then permission will be required. If you live in a listed building then consent will be required.

The installation of air conditioning must comply with building regulations. It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice, preferably one who belongs to either the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or the relevant Competent Person Scheme.

For more information on air conditioning, read our heat pumps common project.

What are the permitted development rights for new porches?

In many cases, you can build a porch without planning permission under permitted development rights, provided certain criteria are met. To qualify as permitted development, your proposed porch must:

  • Not exceed three square metres in external ground area
  • Be no taller than three metres in height
  • Be located at least two metres away from any boundary with a highway

 

Read more about porches on Planning Portal

Ask another question

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Propose a question to help us make Smart Search even smarter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.