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Do I need planning permission to move an internal load bearing wall?
You do not need planning permission to move internal walls.
Removing a load bearing wall will require building control approval as it is altering the structure of the property. You will be required to provide a report from a structural engineer who will provide structural calculations.
Work on internal walls may also affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics. These should be considered during the design process and work should be carried out by a member of the competent person scheme where possible.
Common Questions
Adding a permanent wheelchair ramp for access to a home is likely to require planning permission as it will permanently change the external appearance of the front of the house. If the application is solely for improving disable access to the building then the planning application will be exempt from a planning fee.
If you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.
All permanent wheelchair ramps must comply with Approved Document M of the building regulations which specifies the gradient, width and surfaces which should be used.
Planning permission is not required if the home will be used as a short-term let for 90 days or less throughout the year.
If you plan on using the home as a short-term let for more than this time period, then you will need to apply for planning permission for a change of use.
If you rent a room in your property while you still live there, you will not require planning permission.
For houses, replacing windows with double glazing usually doesn’t require planning permission, provided the style and appearance are similar to the original. However, if you live in a flat/maisonette, listed building, or a conservation area, planning permission or listed building consent may be required, especially if the changes affect the external appearance.
Read more about planning permission for windows and doors for houses
Read about planning permission for windows and doors for flats and maisonettes
In most cases, yes - planning permission is required to operate a business from your garage. This is because the use would no longer be purely domestic, and the garage would be considered to have changed use from residential (Class C3) to a business-related use, which requires planning consent.
Verandas will often require planning permission as they do not fall under permitted development rights. If the veranda is raised over 0.3 metres, covers more than 50% of the land around your house, is on the principal elevation or on a roof then it will need planning permission.
You may require additional consents if you live in a Conservation Area or listed building. If you are unsure, you should contact your local planning authority.
For more information about planning permission for verandas and balconies, read our common project.
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