Details of permitted development
What is permitted development?
Permitted Development rights enable certain alterations and extensions to be made to a dwelling, and also work to be carried out within the curtilage (garden) of a dwelling, without the need to apply for planning permission.
What changes have occurred?
On 1st October 2008 wide-ranging changes were made to the 'Permitted Development' rights for householders.
Under the changes, planning permission is also now required for the laying out of a traditional impermeable driveway or other hard surface in the front garden. These allow uncontrolled runoff of rainwater from front gardens onto roads, and can contribute to flooding and pollution of watercourses.
However you will not need planning permission if the new driveway uses permeable (or porous) surfacing which allows water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving or porous asphalt, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally.
In some instances, 'Permitted Development' rights may have been removed and, if a property is a listed building or within a conservation area further restrictions will be in place. If you are in any doubt as to whether your property may be affected, please contact a member of Development Control staff.
An interactive guide to the changes can be found on the Planning Portal website