How Do I Check if I Need Planning Permission?

Planning permission can feel like a minefield, especially if you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of your local council’s regulations. Whether you’re looking to extend your kitchen, add a porch, or build a garden room, it’s crucial to know when you need planning permission and how to check for it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to figure out if planning permission is required for your next project, making the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Understanding When You Might Need Planning Permission

The first step to answering “how do I check if I need planning permission?” is understanding which types of projects typically require it. Planning permission is often needed for developments that affect your property’s footprint, the surrounding area, or the privacy of your neighbours. Here are some common scenarios where planning permission may be needed:

Major Extensions: Adding rooms, double-storey additions, or significantly increasing the square footage.
New Structures: This includes garden buildings, sheds, or outbuildings beyond a certain size.
External Changes: Changes that affect the appearance of your property, such as adding a balcony or changing roof tiles.
Properties in Conservation Areas: Even minor changes can require permission if your property is in a conservation area.

How Do I Know If I Need Planning Permission for My Project?

To know if you need planning permission, you first need to consider the type of work you’re planning to carry out. Below, we’ll outline the key questions and steps to help you determine whether your project requires planning permission:

Check the Type of Development
- Permitted Development Rights: Some types of home improvements may fall under permitted development rights, meaning you don’t need formal planning permission. Examples of permitted development include small extensions, certain types of loft conversions, and adding sheds or outbuildings. However, there are restrictions based on size, location, and property type.
- Major Changes: If you’re making major changes, such as adding a large extension, changing the use of your building, or building something entirely new, planning permission is generally required.
Consult Your Local Planning Authority (LPA)
- The Local Planning Authority is the governing body that approves or denies planning applications in your area. To know if you need planning permission, contact your LPA. They will provide information specific to your property, including the rules for conservation areas or listed buildings.
- Many councils have online planning portals where you can enter your address and the type of work to get an initial idea of whether permission is needed.

Where to Start – Local Authority Planning Portal

So, how do you actually check if you need planning permission? The most reliable way to start is by visiting your local council’s planning portal. Each local authority will have an online resource that outlines the rules and regulations for planning in your area. This portal typically provides tools for checking planning constraints and can help you identify what permissions may be needed based on the type of project you’re considering.

The Planning Portal – Your Go-To Tool

In the UK, the Planning Portal is a useful resource that provides general guidelines for planning permission. While it might not replace specific advice from your local authority, it can help you understand what falls under permitted development—the type of work you can do without requiring planning permission.

This site lets you access detailed information for your specific project, like whether adding a dormer window or building a porch falls under permitted development rights. It’s also an excellent way to gauge if your plans need council approval before proceeding.

Check if Permitted Development Rights Apply

A crucial part of checking whether you need planning permission is knowing whether your project qualifies as permitted development. Permitted development rights allow you to make certain improvements and alterations to your property without needing to apply for planning permission. Projects that typically fall under these rights include:

Loft Conversions: Most loft conversions that don’t alter the height or footprint of the house fall under permitted development.
Single-Storey Extensions: Adding a single-storey extension of limited size at the rear of your property is often allowed.
Garden Structures: Outbuildings used for purposes incidental to the house, like garden offices or sheds, might also be permitted.

To know for sure, you can visit your council’s website or use the Planning Portal’s Interactive House tool, which allows you to explore different areas of your home and see if planning permission is required.

How Do I Apply for Planning Permission?

If you’ve figured out the answer to how do I know if I need planning permission and realize that you do, the next step is to apply through your Local Planning Authority. Most applications are now done online. You’ll need:

Detailed Plans: Architectural plans of the proposed work, showing both existing and proposed changes.
Supporting Documents: This might include a Design and Access Statement or proof of neighbour consultations.
Fee Payment: Application fees vary depending on the project, but it’s usually a few hundred pounds.

Contacting Your Local Planning Department

If you’re still unsure about whether planning permission is needed, the next step is to contact your local planning authority (LPA). They can provide the clearest answer based on the specific details of your property and your proposed works. Most LPAs offer pre-application advice, which will give you an official answer on whether permission is required, as well as guidance on how likely it is for your application to be approved.

What If You Don’t Get Planning Permission?

If your planning permission is denied, don’t panic. You have the option to:

Appeal: You can appeal the decision, although this can take time and doesn’t guarantee success.
Amend and Resubmit: Often, it’s best to adjust your plans based on the feedback from your LPA and resubmit. Councils will often suggest modifications that would help get your project approved.

Gather the Right Documentation

Once you determine “how do I check if I need planning permission,” you’ll need to prepare the necessary documents if permission is required. These often include:

Scaled Drawings: These detail the existing layout and proposed changes.
Design and Access Statement: Some projects will need a statement outlining the design process, impacts on neighbours, and considerations for accessibility.
Site Plans: Clear plans of your property, often including boundaries, nearby roads, and key features.

Hiring Professionals to Assist You

Navigating the planning permission process can be daunting, especially if it’s your first project. At Surv Essex, we make the journey smooth and straightforward. Many homeowners choose to work with our expert architectural designers because we understand the ins and outs of planning requirements and can handle every detail of the submission process for you.

By partnering with professionals like us, you minimise the risk of refusal, delays, or unexpected costs. With our experience and attention to detail, refusals can often be avoided altogether—ensuring your project moves forward seamlessly and without surprises. When you work with Surv Essex, you get it right the first time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If you’re asking, “how do I check if I need planning permission?” you’re already off to a good start. Here are some common mistakes people make when checking for planning requirements:

Assuming All Works Are Covered by Permitted Development: Each area and property type has unique requirements. For instance, if your property is listed or located in a conservation area, your permitted development rights may be restricted.
Not Factoring in Neighbours: Any work that impacts your neighbours’ view or privacy may require planning permission, so it’s best to check.
Ignoring Conditions on Previous Permissions: Sometimes planning conditions are attached to your property that limit what you can do without further permission.

Check Planning Permission Requirements Early

The best advice is to check if you need planning permission early on in your project timeline. Finding out late that permission is required can result in expensive modifications or delays to your work. It’s always better to have all your permissions lined up before spending money on materials or contractors.

Conclusion: Start with Confidence

To wrap up, “how do I check if I need planning permission?” is a question every homeowner should ask before breaking ground on a new project. Start with your local council’s planning portal, use resources like the Planning Portal to understand permitted development rights, and get in touch with your LPA if you’re unsure. By taking these steps, you can move forward confidently, ensuring that your project is both compliant and successful.