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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.

Read more about demolition.

Common Questions

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.

Read more about demolition.

What happens if I build without permission?

If you do not seek planning permission, build without it when it applies, or do not meet specified conditions of a planning permission, this is known as a planning breach.

Your local planning authority can serve an enforcement notice on you when they consider you have broken planning rules. You may be given the opportunity to apply retrospectively, or be required to remove a building or structure, or alter it to make it acceptable.

Read about your responsibilities.

Is my house in a conservation area?

The UK Government provide access to public land records, allowing you to check certain restrictions on land. You can use the online tool to check whether your land is in a conservation area.

VisitGOV.UK and use the planning data map.

(This map covers planning data for England).

If you are unsure you should contact your local planning authority.

Do I need planning permission to build above an attached garage?

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.

Do I need planning permission and what are the building regulations to move an internal doorway?

Planning permission is not required to move an internal doorway, provided it does not impact the external appearance of the building. If the building is listed, you will require listed building consent for any changes to the building.

Building regulations may apply if the wall is load bearing or is part of a fire escape route.

Read more about windows and doors from our common projects.

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