Will Your Patio or Driveway Project Require Planning Permission?

Figuring out whether your new patio or driveway needs official permission can be tricky. The requirements often depend on your specific property and the exact work you're planning to undertake. This guide aims to clarify the key points you need to consider.

General Rules for Most Patio and Driveway Installations

Typically, when you install a new hard surface like a patio or driveway in most areas around your home, there are no limitations on the total ground area you can cover at or near ground level. This usually means you won't need to apply for planning permission for these particular additions.

Essential Considerations for Paving Your Front Garden

It's vital to note that different regulations come into play specifically when you plan to pave over your front garden space.

When You Always Need to Apply for Planning Permission

Even if your project isn't in the front garden area, you will absolutely need to secure planning permission in the following situations:

• Extensive Groundworks: If your plans involve significant earth movement, such as substantial embanking or creating terraces to support the hard surface, you must submit a formal planning application.

• Listed Buildings: Should you own or live in a listed building, you are required to obtain specific listed building consent for any major alterations, whether these changes are internal or external.

Who These Permitted Development Rights Are For

The 'permitted development' allowances discussed here apply specifically to standard dwelling houses. However, these regulations do not extend to:

• Apartments and maisonettes (multi-occupancy dwellings).

• Homes that have been converted from other uses or constructed under 'permitted development' rights for 'Changes of Use' (specifically Schedule 2, Part 3, Classes G; M; MA; N; P; PA and Q) or 'New Dwellinghouses' (Schedule 2, Part 20).

• Other types of buildings besides standard residential houses.

• Locations that are subject to a planning condition, an Article 4 Direction (which is a local planning tool used to remove permitted development rights), or any other specific limitations that restrict permitted development.