Yes, but this type of conversion will require full planning permission. This is because you’d be changing the use of the ground floor from residential to commercial (typically to a use class such as E), while the upper floor would remain as a residential flat (Class C3). The change of use triggers the need for planning approval.  

Find out more about change of use

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Whether raising the height of an external door requires planning permission depends on the location of the door, location of the property and how drastic the height change will be.

For smaller changes to the side and rear of the property, permitted development rights may apply, meaning no application or planning permission is required.

Where the height change will be substantial and have a significant impact on the building’s appearance, planning permission is likely to be required. Especially in cases where the door to be heightened is on the principal elevation of the property.

‍Principle elevation - The most visible or prominent side of a structure, typically facing a street or public area. While often considered the 'front' of the building, it may not always contain the main entrance.

In designated areas such as conservation areas, or on listed buildings you may require additional approvals such as listed building consent.

If you believe permitted development rights apply to a small change, you can apply for a lawful development certificate to ensure this is the case.

Building regulations

Building regulations approval will likely be required where the change impacts the structure of a building, this primarily occurs when an opening is widened. When altering walls you may want to consult a structural engineer.

Work that requires building control approval will require a completion notice to be submitted to the building control body. The completion notice must be sent within five days of the work being completed, once submitted, the building control body can visit the site to complete a final inspection.

If the work meets the required standards they will issue a completion certificate.

Widening or creating a new external doorway will likely fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided you meet limits and conditions set out in legislation. If the change is on the side or rear of the building it is more likely to comply with planning regulations.

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

New external doorways which create a new or widened opening must comply with building regulations as they may impact the structure of a building.

Read more on our doors and windows common project.

If you're doing electrical installation work in your home or garden in England or Wales, you must follow the building regulations. It's recommended to hire an installer who is registered with a competent person scheme (a registered competent person’) who can self-certify that the work meets the required standards.