What is Permitted Development?
Permitted development can provide a route for certain home improvements without a full planning application. It is not a blanket exemption: the property and the proposed work must meet the relevant rules.
What does permitted development mean?
This guide concerns householder rules in England. Some extensions, roof alterations and other home improvements may qualify. Rights can be restricted by the property's planning history, an Article 4 direction or its location. The usual householder rights do not apply to flats.
How large can a rear extension be?
For a single-storey rear extension, the usual depth limits are 3 metres for an attached house and 4 metres for a detached house, measured from the original rear wall. These are only part of the criteria.
A separate larger-home-extension route may allow up to 6 metres or 8 metres respectively, subject to eligibility, limits and the prior-approval neighbour-consultation process. Do not start work until the applicable requirements have been satisfied.
What still needs checking?
Building regulations and other consents remain separate. Listed buildings, protected locations, previous extensions, height, boundaries and materials can affect the position. A lawful development certificate can provide formal confirmation of whether a proposal is lawful.
Read the government's householder permitted development guidance and check the proposal with the relevant local planning authority or a suitably qualified planning professional. This is a general introduction, not a decision on a particular property.
Plan the space before choosing the route
Start by identifying what you need the extra space to do. A larger kitchen, a separate home office and an additional bedroom involve different layouts and practical decisions. The most useful solution is one that works with your home and priorities, rather than simply reaching the largest possible dimensions.
Explore our extension services, loft conversions and garage conversions, or look through our projects and advice for ideas.
Discuss your project with Silver Fern
Tell us where your property is and what you would like to change. If you already have drawings or advice from your designer, mention that too. We can discuss the building work and the next steps needed to develop your plans.
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