You may need planning permission to make changes to an existing home in the UK. Getting planning permission means your Local Planning Authority (LPA) has granted legal approval for your development. Planning authorities seek to ensure that changes made to your home respect local and national policies, the local character and any statutory considerations.
Why Planning Permission Matters
Local planning authorities are required by law to consider factors such as the impact of a proposed development on neighbours, local services, and the wider street scene. The aim of the law is to ensure development remains in keeping with the local area and avoid harm to local amenities.
If you carry out works that need permission without approval, the LPA can take enforcement action, which may include restoring the property to its previous state. This can be costly, delay future approvals and you may not gain planning permission for the works at a later date.
Do You Actually Need Planning Permission?
Not every development project requires a formal application. Some works fall under permitted development rights, which allow certain extensions, loft conversions, or outbuildings within certain limits. However, it’s worth noting that permitted development rights can vary depending on the location and type of house you occupy. Permitted development is often restricted if you live within a conservation area or own a listed building.
You will generally need to apply for planning permission if your project involves:
- Building, demolishing, or substantially altering the structure of your property
- Converting one home into multiple dwellings
- Changing the use of a building (for example, from residential to commercial)
- Significant excavation, basement, or engineering works
- Making certain changes to a listed building that would normally fall under permitted development, e.g. erecting outbuildings
Projects that typically do not require permission (but still need to meet size and design limits) include:
- Single-storey rear extensions
- Loft conversions within volume allowances
- Installation of solar panels (subject to certain limits)
Understanding the Application Process
Once you confirm that permission is needed, the simplest way to apply is online through the Planning Portal. This national platform allows you to prepare, pay for, and submit your application directly to your council.
Typical steps include:
- Checking local validation and document requirements on your LPA’s website. Your LPA is often your local council but this isn’t the case for every area in the UK.
- Preparing your drawings and supporting documents (see below).
- Completing the application form online or by post.
- Paying the required planning fee.
- Submitting your application for validation and review by your LPA.
Key Documents Needed
Every planning application must include certain national and local documents. Missing or inaccurate information can delay validation or result in refusal.
National requirements typically include:
- Location plan (showing your site and surrounding context)
- Site plan (showing the proposed works in detail)
- Existing and proposed drawings (floor plans and elevations)
- Ownership certificate (confirming who owns the land)
- Design and Access Statement (for larger or sensitive developments)
Your council may request further local documents such as planning statements, tree surveys, or flood-risk assessments depending on your site. Always refer to your LPA’s guidance documents and validation checklist for information.
Navigating the Approval Criteria
When reviewing your application, the Local Planning Authority will consider whether your proposal aligns with the development plan for your area and complies with national policy.
Typical factors include the scale and massing of your proposal, architectural design and materials, relationship to neighbouring properties, impact on daylight/sunlight and overlooking, access/parking and highway safety and environmental or ecological considerations.
Tips for Successful Submission
To give your application the best chance of success:
Engage Your Neighbours Early
Discuss your plans and consider feedback from neighbours before submission. Aside from surfacing likely objections, engaging your neighbours is one of the most important things you can do to head off common objections from neighbours before submitting your application.
Follow Local Design Guidance
Most LPAs have Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) outlining preferred materials and forms. They are typically available on the LPA website, like these examples from South Staffordshire Council.
Check Daylight/Sunlight & Overlooking
Considering how your plans will impact on neighbouring properties is an important part of ensuring a successful outcome. Does your proposed extension project beyond a 45-degree line, drawn from the centre of a neighbour’s nearest habitable window? If so you may be subject to restrictions due to overshadowing or loss of outlook.
Ensure Accurate & Consistent Plans
Inconsistency between drawings can trigger delays and requests for clarification.
Expect a Lengthy Process
Councils typically take 8-12 weeks to determine householder applications. Some councils are currently requiring even longer lead times, for example Birmingham City Council.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding simple errors can help prevent unnecessary delays and refusals:
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation – Missing drawings or incorrect scales cause validation delays.
- Ignoring local policy – Submitting designs that conflict with conservation or character guidance.
- Overlooking neighbour impacts – Failing to address privacy or overshadowing concerns can lead to objections.
- Starting work too early – Beginning construction before approval risks enforcement action.
To understand how long your permission will last once approved, see our guide on How Long Does Planning Permission Last for Home Renovations.
Tracking Your Application Progress
Once your application is validated, you can track its progress on your LPA’s website using your reference number or address.
During the process, your application may be publicly advertised for neighbour consultation, which usually lasts for 21 days. Less commonly a homeowner application may be reviewed by internal consultees such as highways or environmental health. Your application will be determined by a planning officer, or in some cases a planning committee.
If approved, your decision notice will specify any conditions that must be discharged before work begins. If refused, the notice will set out the reasons and next steps, including your right to appeal.
How a Planning Consultant Can Help
Applying for planning permission can feel complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local policy or the documentation required. At Holland Lloyd we aim to help you develop a scheme that meets the relevant planning requirements, whether it’s a new ‘Grand Design’, an extension or another aspiration you want to realise.
FAQs
Do I need planning permission for a home extension?
In many cases, single-storey rear extensions can be built under permitted development rights. However, larger extensions, side extensions, or those in conservation areas usually require full planning permission. Always confirm with your Local Planning Authority before starting work.
How do I apply for planning permission?
You can apply through the Planning Portal or directly to your Local Planning Authority. You’ll need to provide scaled plans, certificates, and pay the relevant fee.
What documents do I need for a planning application?
Most applications require a location plan, site plan, existing and proposed drawings, and an ownership certificate. Some projects may also need a Design and Access Statement or specialist reports.
How long does planning permission take?
Depending on whether your LPA has a backlog, most householder applications are decided within 8 weeks of validation. More complex or major developments may take up to 13 weeks.
What happens if planning permission is refused?
You can appeal the decision through the Planning Inspectorate or amend your design and resubmit. A planning consultant such as Holland Lloyd can help address the refusal reasons effectively.
How long does planning permission last once approved?
Typically, you must start work within three years of the approval date. For details, see our related guide: How Long Does Planning Permission Last for Home Renovations.