PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT
There are many things that can be done under permitted development and do not require planning permission. However this is only providing they meet all of the necessary planning criteria and there are no hidden constraints that limit or remove permitted development rights.
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Extensions
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Garage Conversions
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Loft Conversions
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Porches
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Walls / Fences / Gates & Access
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Driveways / Hardstandings
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Conservatories
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Outbuildings
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Change of Use
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House in Multiple Occupancy (HMO)
It is very important to note that every project type has different planning and design criteria that must be met in order to be considered permitted development. In addition to this there can be hidden constraints which remove permitted development rights.
This literally means there could be two houses in the same town both doing the exactly the same development, such as a 3-meter extension for example. One could be permitted development, while the other needs planning permission, even though they both meet the criteria for permitted development.
Some permitted development projects also require prior approval from the local planning authority even though they are considered permitted development. If prior approval is required work must not start until the local planning authority approves the application.
Unfortunately, we deal with a lot of clients who thought what they were doing was permitted development and got it wrong. If the council determines planning permission is required for something you have already done, you would receive an enforcement giving you 28 days to secure approval or put the property back to its original state. If you built something this would mean demolishing it.
We can and do help lots of clients with retrospective planning applications and we will always do our best to achieve a positive outcome. However, we can never guarantee planning approval and especially if there is an enforcement as this likely means there are neighbours objecting.
