For houses, replacing windows with double glazing usually doesn’t require planning permission, provided the style and appearance are similar to the original. However, if you live in a flat/maisonette, listed building, or a conservation area, planning permission or listed building consent may be required, especially if the changes affect the external appearance.

Read more about planning permission for windows and doors for houses

Read about planning permission for windows and doors for flats and maisonettes

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Rules governing outbuildings apply to sheds, playhouses, greenhouses and garages as well as other ancillary garden buildings such as swimming pools, ponds, sauna cabins, kennels, enclosures (including tennis courts) and many other kinds of structures for a purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the dwellinghouse.

If you are unsure if your planned building falls into the category of 'outbuildings' or if you are unsure if planning permission is required, please contact your local planning authority.

Outbuildings are considered to be permitted development, not needing planning permission, subject certain limits and conditions.

Read about the limits and conditions for outbuildings

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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:

• Not exceed three square metres in external ground area

• Be no taller than three metres in height

• Be located at least two metres away from any boundary with a highway

Read more about porches on Planning Portal

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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.

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You can find information about the limits and conditions, prior approval and the building regulations on the Planning Portal by using the links below.  

Read about planning permission for extensions

Read about prior approval for larger single storey extensions

Find out about building regulations for an extension

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Changing a standard garage door to an electric garage door will not normally require planning permission. Instead, they are covered by permitted development rights.

Permission may be required if your property is listed, you live in a conservation area or there will be a visual impact on the appearance of the house as viewed from the street. If you are unsure, it is advised that you contact your local planning authority.

Work to install an electric garage door must comply with Part P of the building regulations. This can be done by using an electrician who is registered with the competent person scheme.

‍Visit the website for registered electrical competent persons.

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