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Do new external steps outside my house need planning permission or building control approval?
Planning permission is not normally required for steps in a garden, however, permission may be required if the steps are part of a larger project such as a raised deck attached to the front of the house.
If the external steps are attached to the house and a roof is constructed, this will become a porch which has different rules attached. Read full details on the planning rules for porches in our common projects section.
Different rules may apply if you live in a designated area such as a conservation area or if the building you live in is listed.
External steps will not normally require building regulations approval unless they are part of the access to the building. If they are then you must ensure that you do not reduce the level of accessibility to the house.
You should contact your local planning authority for further project advice, alternatively, you can apply for a lawful development certificate for confirmation that any changes you make do not require planning permission.
Common Questions
You can put one flagpole up to 4.6 metres high in your garden without needing to apply for planning permission. If it is higher than this or you live in a protected area such as a Conservation Area or listed building then consent will be required.
Certain flags can be flown without needing consent, such as national flags.
Read government guidance on flying flags for more information.
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.
A soakaway does not normally require an application for planning permission provided it deals with surface water and does not discharge into a public sewer. Additional regulations may apply if you are in a conservation area or within the boundary of a listed building.
Building regulations will apply to the creation of a soakaway. The soakaway must comply with Part H of the building regulations which specifies where they can be located and the size that is permitted.
Read more about Approved Document H.
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.
You may wish to make loft alterations to enhance the storage facilities available or to increase the living space of the home. Converting the loft of a house is considered to be permitted development (not requiring an application for planning permission) subject to certain limits and conditions.
Remember, building regulations approval is required to convert a loft or attic into a liveable space.
Find out about loft conversions
There are different rules for flats and maisonettes regarding loft conversions. Read guidance for converting the loft of a top floor flat.
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