Do I need planning permission to operate a business from my garage?

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.

Common Questions

What size extension can I build without planning permission?

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.

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You can find information about the limits and conditions, prior approval and the building regulations on the Planning Portal by using the links below.

Read about planning permission for extensions

Read about prior approval for larger single storey extensions

Find out about building regulations for an extension

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Do I need planning permission to add a children’s climbing frame in my front or back garden?

Climbing frames are classed as ‘outbuildings’ meaning they are classed as permitted development, not requiring an application provided they meet the limits set out in legislation. One of these limits is that they cannot be in front of the house.

The key restrictions for a climbing frame will be the height; how close it can be to the properties boundaries and where it can be located.

A full list of limits and conditions can be found on our outbuildings common projects.

If the climbing frame exceeds any of the limits set out in legislation an application for planning permission is required.

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Can I replace my grass lawn with artificial grass?

In most cases neither planning permission nor building control approval are required for replacing grass with artificial grass. If you live in a protected areas such as a conservation area, or listed building, it is best practice to contact your local planning authority to check whether any consents are required.

Find your local planning authority.

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Do I need planning permission to replace an existing bay window?

Replacing the window within a bay window is treated the same as any other window. Meaning that the replacement of windows which have a similar appearance to those previously used would not require an application for planning permission.

Repairs, maintenance and minor improvements will also not require an application.

If you live in a listed building or a designated area then different rules may apply.

For more details on replacing windows, visit our common projects section.

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Do I need building control approval to remove all or part of an internal stud (partition) wall?

Removing a non-load bearing wall will likely not require building control approval provided it does not affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics.

It is best practice to get a report from a structural engineer to ensure the wall is non-load bearing prior to starting any work.

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