In many cases, you can build a porch without planning permission under permitted development rights, provided certain criteria are met. To qualify as permitted development, your proposed porch must:
Read more about porches on Planning Portal
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.
There is no single legal definition of "habitable room", as its use and meaning are subject to context. Generally, a habitable room is a space in a building that is designed for people to live, sleep, or spend extended periods of time in, but does not include bath or toilet facilities, corridors or utility rooms.
Once submitted, your planning application first goes through a validation process. After its validated, the formal decision period is 8 weeks. However, in some cases, especially for more complex proposals or if further information is needed, your local authority may request an extension of time.
Understand more about the decision-making process on Planning Portal
Categorising land and buildings according to their type and purpose is known as Use Classes.
A 'Change of use' can be within the same Use Class or from one Use Class to another.
You will need planning permission for certain changes to the use of a property such as changing from a residential use to a business use. However, it is possible to change use between some classes without having to make an application for planning permission.
Depending on the specifics of any proposed change of use, including any building work associated with the proposal, an application for planning permission or prior approval may be required.
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.