Do You Need Planning Permission for a Conservatory?

Building a conservatory is one of the most effective ways to increase the size and value of your home. At happinest, we understand that conservatory planning permission can be a source of confusion for some people. 

So if you’re scouring the internet for answers to ‘do you need planning permission for a conservatory?’, then we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out! 

Firstly, if you’re thinking about adding a conservatory to your home, you should be aware of what you can and cannot build. It is your responsibility to obtain planning permission before beginning a building project, and if a new conservatory does not meet regulations, you may be ordered to demolish it at your expense.

Conservatory Planning Permission Explained

You can build certain types of structures without applying for planning permission because of ‘permitted development rights’. Some conservatories and single-storey extensions fall into this category. 

We recommend always checking whether you need conservatory planning permission before the construction process begins so you have complete peace of mind without a penny being spent. 

Whether a conservatory needs planning permission or not depends on your project’s specifications. In most cases, it is not necessary to obtain conservatory planning permission because adding one to your home is typically allowed under ‘permitted development rights’. However, this is subject to certain conditions. 

Changes in the Law

On the 15th of May 2019, the Government formally relaxed its permitted conservatory development rights, allowing homeowners in England to build larger extensions without having to obtain planning permission. 

Rather than applying for planning permission, you must ensure that your conservatory has no negative impact on your neighbours’ living space. Neighbours will still be consulted and have the opportunity to object to extensions as part of the ‘Neighbour Consultation Scheme’. 

When Can I Build a Conservatory Without Planning Permission?

You can add a conservatory onto your home if: 

• It is a single storey extension with a maximum height of 3m or 4m high (if within a 2m boundary). 
• It does not cover more than half of the garden.
• The roof ridge or top point is not higher than the original roof of the home.
• It does not extend beyond the sidewall of the house. 
• It does not include balconies, raised platforms or verandas.
• It is less than 50% in size of the total area around the original house.

Why Were the Conservatory Planning Permission Changes Made?

If you were searching ‘do you need planning permission for a conservatory’ and came across the changes brought in by the Government, you’re probably wondering why exactly these changes were made. 

According to the Government, the law has been changed so that families can grow without being forced to relocate. These measures are intended to assist people in extending their homes without having to deal with time-consuming red tape and regulations.

Prior to May 2013, planning restrictions only allowed detached houses to have a single storey extension of no more than 4m, and all non-detached properties could only have a 3m extension.

The most you can now extend a detached house is 8 metres. You can add up to 6 metres to a terraced or semi-detached property.

How Do the New Rules Work?

Instead of waiting months for approval on your conservatory planning permission, homeowners will now notify the council of any building work ahead of time. It is then the responsibility of council officials to notify the neighbours. If you have a good relationship with your neighbours, we always recommend you to be the ones to let them know.

If your neighbours express any concerns, the council must decide whether the extension is likely to be harmful and detract from the area’s character or enjoyment. If they believe this is the case, the council may halt the plans or request that they be modified.

Designing Your Dream happinest

Choosing to expand your house is a huge commitment. Before making the financial investment, it is often necessary to conduct extensive research. If you want to extend your property, our local happinest certified planning consultants can help make the process of planning your dream home enjoyable, stress-free and affordable. 

We’re experts in getting plans approved for your dream extension to create a clever, creative, beautiful space for you to enjoy for years to come. Our experts can simplify and manage the entire process from start to finish, leaving you with a stunning, one-of-a-kind conservatory.

Looking for building regulation drawings Nottingham? Get in touch with our specialist team to discuss your next project!