On 1 October 2008, changes to the General Permitted Development Rights came into force to free up the mountain of planning applications in the planning system, in particular householder applications. In essence, the new rights will allow for more minor developments without the need to apply for planning permission.
Instead of volume considerations, dimensions of the proposed extension, its position on the house and its proximity to your boundaries will be factors relating to whether planning permission is needed. These allowances will vary depending on whether the property is detached, semi-detached or terraced. In general, permitted development extensions are subject to standard conditions to ensure they are built suitably with matching materials and any side facing windows to be obsure-glazed. See planning portal for more details:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/england/genpub/en/1115315206517.html
Permission for roof alterations will not be needed subject to certain limits and conditions; see planning portal for more details: http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/england/genpub/en/1115315235285.html
Planning permission will not be needed if permeable paving is used for driveways or if run-off and soak away occur naturally within the curtilage of the property.
Previous restrictions on solar panels on roofs have been lifted.
An interactive house guide showing householder permitted rights can be found on the Planning Portal website: http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/hhg/houseguide.html
If you require any additional information please contact Kay Davies on 01530 410824 email kay.davies@fishergerman.co.uk or Marie Stacey on 01530 410844 email marie.stacey@fishergerman.co.uk
