News
Planning Permission – still required?
On 1st October 2008 new planning rules came into effect making certain projects ‘permitted development’ so planning permission is no longer required.
The main changes are as follows:
- Loft conversions no longer need planning permission if they fall within a specified size and appearance.
- Rear extensions (including two storey) and ground floor side extension within defined limits no longer need planning permission. Side facing windows on an upper floor need to be obscure glass.
- Conservatories also no longer need planning permission subject to size conditions.
- Decking is also exempt provided it is no more than 30cm above the ground and does not cover more than 50% of the total garden.
- No planning is needed for the surfacing of a drive of any size provided that permeable or porous materials are used. If different materials are used then planning permission is still require.
Homeowners still need to check the pre-conditions to the permitted developments and there are additional requirements if the property is within areas such as a conservation area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is also likely that many developments will also often need to obtain Building Regulation Approval, as this is a separate regime run by the Local Authority.
Please contact Roger Stone at Chichester or Sarah Evans at Selsey for more information.