PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT BASICS

Outbuildings tend to come under permitted development (PD) rights, but if these don’t apply to you (for instance, if your plans exceed the size limits, your house is positioned in a conservation area, or you own a listed building) then you’ll need specific planning consent.

The intended use of the building is crucial when it comes to permission to build, so make sure you define how you intend to use the zone properly.

You can’t cover more than 50% of the property’s original garden with buildings; the structure must be single storey, have a maximum eaves height of 2.5m and overall height of 3m. Verandas, balconies and raised platforms don’t fall under PD.

Always check whether permitted development applies, or whether you need full planning, before going ahead with an outbuilding project.