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What rules apply to installing an extractor fan?
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.
Common Questions
Building a porch at ground level and under 30 square metres in floor area is normally exempt from the need for building regulations approval.
This is provided that glazing and any fixed electrical installations comply with the appropriate sections of building regulations.
To find out more about the building regulations for porches, visit Planning Portal.
Find out more about glazing and electrical installations
It is likely that you will require planning permission to extend an existing front porch to add a toilet.
Adding a porch falls within permitted development rights meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided specified limits and conditions are met. However, to fall under permitted development rights for a porch, the total ground area must not exceed three square metres. This is unlikely to be enough room to fit toilet and the required additional components.
Read the full rules for porches under permitted development on our mini guides.
If your porch exceeds these limits, it will be classified as an extension. These can be permitted development but come with a different set of rules.
Extensions are not permitted development if they are built forward of the ‘principal elevation’ of the house. As such, you will be required to submit an application for planning permission to your local planning authority.
If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant changes.
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.
In many cases, you can extend a house without applying for planning permission by using what's known as permitted development rights, provided certain limits and conditions are met. However, if your plans go beyond these restrictions, you will likely need to apply for householder planning permission.
Permitted development rights allow certain types of work to be carried out without the need to apply for planning permission. It typically covers things like small extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, provided they meet specific size and location limits. These rights can vary or be removed in areas like conservation zones and by Article 4’s, so it’s best to check before proceeding.
Read about permitted development and Article 4 directions on Planning Portal
