Do I need Planning Permission for a Conservatory?

Adding a conservatory to your property is regarded as falling under the ambit of “permitted development” (for a house, not a flat or a maisonette).

What is Permitted Development?

“Permitted development” is a term used by local authorities to mean that one does not need to make an application for planning permission, subject to certain limits and conditions.

Some of the conditions which have to be satisfied in order for a conservatory to fall under the scope of permitted development are as follows:

  • No more than half of the area of land around the house (as originally built) would be covered by any additions or other buildings.
  • An extension or conservatory cannot be taller than the highest part of the roof.
  • A single-storey rear extension or conservatory must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than three metres if it is for a semi-detached or terraced house, or by four metres if it is for a detached house.
  • A single storey rear extension or conservatory cannot exceed four metres in height.
  • Extensions of more than one storey must not extend beyond the rear wall of the house (as originally built) by more than three metres or be within seven metres of any boundary opposite the rear wall of the house.
  • The maximum eaves and ridge height of the extension can be no higher than the existing house.
  • There cannot be any verandas, balconies or raised platforms.

 

 

There are several more conditions to be satisfied and to ensure that your planning application is submitted to the Local Authority correctly, please contact us for assistance.

Do I need Building Regulations for a Conservatory?

Building regulations will generally apply if you want to add an extension onto your property. Conservatories however are normally exempt from building regulations when:

  • They are built at ground level and are less than 30 square metres in floor area.
  • The conservatory is separated from the house by external quality walls, doors or windows.
  • There should be an independent heating system with separate temperature and on/off controls in the conservatory.
  • Glazing and any fixed electrical installations must comply with the applicable building regulations requirements.

 

 

It is not advisable to construct a conservatory where it will restrict ladder access to windows serving rooms in roof or loft conversions otherwise it would block any escape routes in the unfortunate event of a fire.

Any new structural opening between the conservatory and the existing house will require building regulations approval, even if the conservatory itself is an exempt structure.

Please call us on 0207 183 0084 or email us on property@olaleslie.com to find out how permitted development rules may apply to your circumstances and to receive general planning law advice with a fixed fee quotation.

We are Planning Law Specialists!

Ayesha Leslie, Partner
Ola Leslie Solicitors
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The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.