Can I pave my front garden to use as a driveway?

You will not need planning permission if a new or replacement driveway of any size uses permeable (or porous) surfacing which allows water to drain through, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally.

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If the surface to be covered is more than five square metres planning permission will be needed for laying traditional, impermeable driveways that do not provide for the water to run to a permeable area.

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This guidance applies to houses, there are different rules for flats and maisonettes, converted houses, new houses or areas where there permitted development rights may be restricted.

Read about paving your front garden

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You may need to consider if a dropped kerb is required, largely dropped kerbs are not a planning matter but you will need to apply to your local council.

Find out more about dropped kerbs

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Common Questions

How high can I build a single-storey extension without planning permission?

A single storey rear extension can fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission may not be required providing it meets certain criteria.

In terms of height, the extension must:

Be no taller than four metres at its highest point

Have eaves no higher than the eaves of the original house

Not exceed the height of the original dwelling

Read about planning permission for extensions on Planning Portal

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What are the planning and building rules for installing a toilet in the downstairs of a property?

Normally planning permission is not required for installing a toilet in an existing area of the property as the change is only internal. If the toilet is part of a wider project such as an extension permission may be required.

If you live in a listed building, then listed building consent will be required for any major changes.

Building regulations will apply to the installation of a toilet in a property, these will cover areas such as ventilation, plumbing and drainage, and size.

Do I need permission to brick up an external door?

Bricking up an external door is classified as permitted development, meaning an application for planning permission is not required to complete the works. You will need to ensure that any materials used are of a similar appearance to the existing exterior of the house.

If you live in a listed building, then you will require planning permission and listed building consent for the change. In this instance it is best practice to talk to your local planning authority.

Find your local planning authority.

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Do I need planning permission to demolish a building?

Demolishing a building may require planning permission or prior approval, depending on factors such as the building’s type, size, and location.

Before starting any demolition work, it’s important to consult your local planning authority to confirm what permissions are needed. This helps avoid the risk of enforcement action or legal consequences.

You will also need to ensure you conform to the building regulations around the demolishing of a building.

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