Do I need Planning Permission?
Home improvement projects
There are a number of minor changes you can make to your home without needing to apply for planning permission. These are called your 'Permitted Development Rights'.
If you are proposing to undertake a home improvement project, we encourage you to explore the guidance available on the Planning Portal (opens new window) to determine whether planning permission is required. The Planning Portal contains information on common projects as well as an interactive house (opens new window).
The Planning Portal offers information for some common projects, such as:
- single storey extensions (opens new window)
- conservatories (opens new window)
- two storey extensions (opens new window)
- loft conversions (opens new window)
- outbuildings (including garages, sheds and other ancillary garden buildings) (opens new window)
- porches (opens new window)
- fences, gates and garden walls (opens new window)
- satellite, TV and radio antennas (opens new window)
If you are still unsure, you can speak to our Planning Duty Officer.
Restrictions that may affect your property
Not all properties have the benefit of Permitted Development Rights. Some properties including flats, properties within conservation areas, listed buildings or those with Article 4 directions may have had their Permitted Development Rights removed.
You should check whether any of these apply to your property before applying for planning permission.
Other development
You will generally need planning permission to construct a new building (e.g. a new dwelling), make significant alterations to a building or change the use of a building or land. However, there are Permitted Development Rights that allow certain changes of use without having to make a planning application. Visit the Planning Portal change of use guidance (opens new window).
The Planning Portal also has information about:
- warehouses and industrial buildings (opens new window)
- displaying advertisements and signage (opens new window).
If you are unsure whether planning permission is required for your project, please complete our planning advice enquiry form (PDF) [103KB] (opens new window) and send it to planningadvice@sholland.gov.uk.