You typically will not need planning permission to install a hot tub in your garden, as it is classed as an outbuilding and within the permitted development rights in terms of size and portability. However, you may need planning permission if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you should check first with your local authority.

The hot tub will need to adhere to the building regulations in terms of safe and adequate electrical installation by a registered competent person. Find out more about using a registered competent person.

Also, if the hot tub is placed within a building such as a large shed-style structure, there will be separate planning and building control limitations on that structure.

Work that requires building control approval will require a completion notice to be submitted to the building control body. The completion notice must be sent within five days of the work being completed, once submitted, the building control body can visit the site to complete a final inspection.

If the work meets the required standards they will issue a completion certificate.

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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A roof window (or skylight) is fitted flush within the slope of a roof, while a dormer projects outward, creating additional headroom and floor space.  

Both can be installed under permitted development but must meet specific size and position limits to qualify.  

Also consider building regulations for a new dormer, find out more on Planning Portal  

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Planning permission is unlikely to be required for the installation of external damp proofing unless the work will change the external appearance of the building or is part of a larger project.

If you live in a listed building you will need listed building consent for any significant changes, this can include external damp proofing. Additional rules may also apply if you live in a Conservation Area or other protected area.

Building regulations approval is not required for installing an external damp proof course (DPC).

Read further guidance on damp proofing.