.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
What permissions are required for a pond in my garden?
Most garden ponds will fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required. In planning terms a pond will be classed as an outbuilding, to read the full rules around installing an outbuilding, visit our common projects section.
For ponds which are particularly deep or large, you may need to apply for planning permission. If you are unsure, you should contact your local planning authority for advice.
In a listed building you will require listed building consent for any major changes.
When installing a pond, you should take into account other regulatory considerations such as environmental permits or any protected species which may be impacted. Further thought will have to be placed when creating ponds near riverways or in areas of flood risk.
Common Questions
Foundations are required to carry and distribute the load of the building safely. Therefore, all buildings should have adequate foundations. The factors that need to be considered when designing a foundation are:
- Type of soil
- Adjacent structures
- Trees
- Drains and sewers
- Size and construction of the new building
- Ground condition
- Landfill sites
It is advisable to contact a structural engineer or speak to a building control body about plans for new foundations.
Read more about foundations for extensions
An improvement notice is a notice served by a local authority requiring a property owner to carry out specified works to bring a building into compliance with the legal standards. These are most commonly served to landlords to make a building safe.
The notice will specify what works should be completed and when it should begin and be completed by.
Failure to comply with an improvement notice is a criminal offence.
Inefficient windows and doors can significantly contribute to heat loss. Replacing single glazed windows by installing double glazing can cut heat loss through windows considerably. Double glazing works by trapping air between two panes of glass creating an insulating barrier that reduces heat loss, noise and condensation.
If you can't replace all the windows, why not choose the rooms that cost you the most to heat? Other options to reduce heat loss through windows include sealing gaps or using thermal blinds.
You don’t usually need planning permission for repairs, maintenance and minor improvements or replacing windows and doors that are of a similar appearance.
Building regulations apply to replacement glazing, in terms of thermal performance, air supply, ventilation, safety and means of escape.
Read about planning and building rules for doors and windows
Adding an internal wall will not require planning permission or building control approval in most cases. If the building is listed, then you may require listed building consent to make a major alteration to the house.
Any work completed should adhere to building regulations, ensuring fire routes, electrics and ventilation are considered.
To qualify as permitted development some household building work projects – notably extending a house – must not exceed limits to the volume being added.
In England, the volume allowance mostly applies to loft conversions. You can read more on the Planning Portal.
Use the volume calculator to find out the volume of several loft conversion and extension types.
Ask another question
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
