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I’m replacing a window, do I need planning permission or building control approval increase its size?
Increasing the size of a window will often fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required to make the change, provided limits and conditions are met.
Any new window must be of similar appearance to the original which you are replacing.
Permitted development rights do not apply to flats. To increase the size of a window in a flat or maisonette you will require planning permission.
If you live in a listed building, you will require listed building consent for any major changes.
Where the work has as significant impact on the external appearance of the house, especially on the principal elevation, planning permission may be required.
Building control 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.
Building control will also consider energy efficiency, glazing, ventilation and fire safety.
Common Questions
Yes, under permitted development, a new dormer must not be higher than the existing highest part of the roof. It should also have materials that are in similar appearance to the existing roof. Additional limits apply in conservation areas and on listed buildings. Read about planning permission for loft conversions on Planning Portal
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.
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.
You don't actually need to own land or property to apply for planning permission for it. This means you can apply for permission before deciding whether or not to buy a piece of land.
The following people must be informed about a planning application relating to land or buildings that they have an interest in:
- The owner or all the part-owner/s (if you are not the full owner)
- Any leaseholders with at least seven years' lease remaining
- Any agricultural tenants.
You can contact your local planning authority for pre-application advice or book an appointment with our Planning Guidance Service.
A carport can fall under permitted development rights provided it meets certain limits and conditions set out in legislation. If you exceed or fail to meet a requirement then you will require planning permission.
If not attached to the house, a car port will be treated as an ‘outbuilding’. A full list of requirements is available on our outbuildings common project.
