Two storey rear extensions are considered to be permitted development, meaning they do not require an application for planning permission provided certain limits and conditions are met. If these limits are exceeded then you will need to apply for planning permission from the local planning authority.

Houses on designated land such as national parks or conservation areas are excluded from the permitted development rights and will require an application for planning permission.

To fall within permitted development rights, the extension should be no higher than the existing house, and where it is within two metres of a boundary, the eaves should be no higher than three metres. 

Any double storey extension to the side or front of the house will require planning permission. You can view the full limits and conditions on our Two-storey extension Mini Guide.

If you live in a listed building you will require listed building consent for any major works to the property.

Whether you need planning permission to install an extractor fan depends on the size and placement of the fan.

For domestic installations, such as a bathroom or kitchen in your house, planning permission is not generally required. If the change significantly alters the external appearance of your home then permission may be required.

If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant changes.

Larger extractor fans for businesses are likely to require an application for planning permission to be made to the local planning authority. These extractors can impact the local area due to their noise, visibility and odour, as such the planning authority will need to assess the change.

Building regulations relating to ventilation and electrical works will have to be complied with, these are covered by Approved Document F and P respectively.

Read more about building regulations and the requirement for ventilation on our common projects.

The green belt is a specially designated area of countryside protected from most forms of development. It is protected to help stop urban sprawl, preserve the character of existing settlements and encourage development within existing built-up areas.

The government are working on improving access to public land records, allowing you to check certain restrictions on land. You can view their progress here and see whether your land is greenbelt (note: this tool is currently under development).

You should contact your local planning authority to find out if your land is in a green belt area, and any policies or restrictions that may apply as a result.

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If your proposal for planning permission or building regulations approval is solely for extensions or alterations to a disabled person’s house to improve access, safety or comfort then you are exempt from paying a planning or building control fee. Additionally, if you are providing means of access for disabled persons to public buildings you are exempt from any fee.

Note that for building regulations approval, you will only be exempt when applying to a local authority building control body.

Adding a new driveway to an unclassified road for access to a house or business falls under permitted development rights, meaning no application for planning permission is required.

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

You will have to apply to the relevant highway authority for a dropped kerb if you wish to cross a pavement to access your property.

Read more information on our dropped kerb common project.