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Do I need planning permission for a single storey extension?

In many circumstances, rules known as ‘permitted development’ rights allow you to extend a house without needing to apply for planning permission, providing specific limitations and conditions are met. If you want to exceed these limits and conditions, then it is likely that an application for householder planning permission will be required.

The limits and conditions for building an extension under permitted development rules are covered in our guidance on the Planning Portal, and there are other points to take into consideration.

Visit Planning Portal to find out more.

Common Questions

Do I need planning permission to display a sign in my front garden advertising my business?

You likely will require advertisement consent to display a commercial advertisement outside your home, especially when the company does not operate from that location.

 It is more likely that permission will be required where:

  • the sign is over 0.3 square metres or illuminated
  • the sign is visible from a road
  • the building is listed or in a designated area then consent

Find out more about advertisement consent on Planning Portal.

Where can I find information about change of use class from C3 to C2?

An application for full planning permission for a change of use is often required when changing from a house (use class C3) to a residential institution (use class C2). This is due to the increased activity which a C2 use would have on the local street area through the addition of visitors, staff and changes to parking.

Read additional information on use classes and changes of use.

What are the rules around fitting a log burner?

You will often not require planning permission to fit a log burner. If you are adding a new external flue or chimney then different rules will apply.

If you live in a listed building you will require listed building consent.

The installation of a log burner must comply with building regulations. It is recommended that you use a HETAS-registered installer who can certify the work. Visit the HETAS website to search for an installer.

Read more information around fitting an external flue or chimney in our common projects section.

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.

What permissions are needed, or regulations need to be met to install a stair lift?

Planning permission is not required for the installation of a stair lift, however, if you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

Stairlifts must be installed in line with BS EN 81-40:2020 which focuses on safety requirements for the installation of stairlifts.

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