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Do I need permission to create an opening for a new window?
Inserting new windows which look similar to those previously used in the house will often not require planning permission. Some rules apply to new additions, for example if they are on an upper-floor side elevation they must be obscure glazed and non-opening or more than 1.7 metres above the floor.
Installing a new bay window on the front elevation would require planning permission as it is classed as a forward extension.
If you live in a listed building or conservation area you should contact your local planning authority.
Any new openings will have to comply with building regulations, this may impact thermal heat loss, structure, ventilation and fire safety.
You can use a member of a competent person scheme to complete any work, this will ensure that the work is completed in-line with regulations.
Common Questions
A soakaway does not normally require an application for planning permission provided it deals with surface water and does not discharge into a public sewer. Additional regulations may apply if you are in a conservation area or within the boundary of a listed building.
Building regulations will apply to the creation of a soakaway. The soakaway must comply with Part H of the building regulations which specifies where they can be located and the size that is permitted.
Read more about Approved Document H.
Once submitted, your planning application first goes through a validation process. After its validated, the formal decision period is 8 weeks. However, in some cases, especially for more complex proposals or if further information is needed, your local authority may request an extension of time.
Understand more about the decision-making process on Planning Portal
When you, or an agent acting on your behalf, have submitted a planning application, the local authority will firstly check the application to check if it’s complete. This validation process allows the authority to ensure everything that is required to decide an application has been received and provided correctly. They will contact you if they require any further information from you.
After the application has been validated, the determination process begins and takes up to 8 weeks for smaller applications, or up to 13 weeks for larger applications. The authority should be able to give you an idea about the likely timetable. The local authority will contact you with their decision.
Read more about the decision-making process for planning applications.
A dropped kerb is a sloping point in the pavement to provide access by vehicle to a property. Dropped kerbs aren’t usually a planning matter although it is recommended that you contact your local authority to find out if planning permission is required, and you will need to make a specific dropped kerb application for a domestic vehicle crossing licence to your local authority.
Work to create a dropped kerb must be carried out by a New Roads and Street Works Act accredited contractor.
Building above an attached garage is treated the same as adding a storey to the rest of your home. This is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission provided you meet the set rules and requirements.
You will still need to submit an application for prior approval to your local planning authority.
Read the list of rules and requirements for extending upwards.
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