Feedback
Back arrow, pointing left

Do I need planning permission to put new driveway access on an unclassified road?

Adding a new driveway to an unclassified road for access to a house or business falls under permitted development rights, meaning no application for planning permission is required.

If you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

You will have to apply to the relevant highway authority for a dropped kerb if you wish to cross a pavement to access your property.

Read more information on our dropped kerb common project.

Common Questions

What is an improvement notice?

An improvement notice is a notice served by a local authority requiring a property owner to carry out specified works to bring a building into compliance with the legal standards. These are most commonly served to landlords to make a building safe.

The notice will specify what works should be completed and when it should begin and be completed by.

Failure to comply with an improvement notice is a criminal offence.

Can I upgrade my windows and doors to reduce heat loss?

Inefficient windows and doors can significantly contribute to heat loss. Replacing single glazed windows by installing double glazing can cut heat loss through windows considerably. Double glazing works by trapping air between two panes of glass creating an insulating barrier that reduces heat loss, noise and condensation.  

If you can't replace all the windows, why not choose the rooms that cost you the most to heat? Other options to reduce heat loss through windows include sealing gaps or using thermal blinds.

You don’t usually need planning permission for repairs, maintenance and minor improvements or replacing windows and doors that are of a similar appearance.

Building regulations apply to replacement glazing, in terms of thermal performance, air supply, ventilation, safety and means of escape.

Read about planning and building rules for doors and windows

Do I need permission for a satellite dish?

Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended), you have a general permission to install an antenna up to a specific size on property without the need for planning permission. This general permission depends on your house type and area. Your local planning authority can give you more advice.

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.

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.

Ask another question

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Propose a question to help us make Smart Search even smarter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.