Do You Need Planning Permission for a Porch?

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Key Highlights

1. Permitted development rights may allow for certain porch projects without the need for planning permission.
2. Houses can have permitted development rights but not all houses have permitted development rights.
3. Flats, maisonettes, and commercial properties always need planning permission.
4. Planning constraints such as conservation areas, listed buildings, and Article 4 Directions may limit or remove permitted development rights.
5. Permitted development rights allow for porches up to three square meters in ground floor area, under three meters in height, and over two meters away from any highway boundary.
6. Porches that exceed these limits or are located in designated areas may require planning permission.
7. Building regulations approval is necessary for certain elements of porch construction, such as windows and electrical installations.
8. It is important to consult with your local planning authority or a qualified town planner before proceeding with a porch project to limit the risk of making any of the common permitted development mistakes.

Introduction

Adding a porch to your house is a great way to enhance its aesthetic appeal and create functional space. Whether you want a cozy entryway or a covered area to enjoy the outdoors, a porch can provide the perfect solution for your home improvement project. However, before starting your porch construction project, it is important to understand the regulations and requirements regarding planning permission.

Planning permission is the process by which local authorities regulate and control the development and use of land. It ensures that any changes made to a property are in compliance with the relevant planning regulations. While not all porch constructions require planning permission, it is important to know the rules and guidelines to limit the risk of making any of the common permitted development mistakes, which could result in a breach of planning, unlimited fines and even having to demolish the porch if retrospective planning permission is not possible.

In this blog, we will explore the topic of planning permission for porches in detail. We will discuss the concept of permitted development rights, the key considerations before building a porch, and the criteria for determining if planning permission is needed. We will also cover the role of building regulations in porch construction and provide guidance on navigating the planning permission process and understanding planning permission rules. By the end of this blog, you will have a clear understanding of when planning permission is required for a porch and how to proceed with your project.

Understanding Planning Permission for Porches

Before delving into the specifics of planning permission for porches, it is important to understand the concept of permitted development rights. Permitted development rights allow certain types of development, including porches, to be carried out without the need for planning permission. These rights are granted by the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, but it is important to note that these permitted development allowances do not extend to flats, maisonettes, or other buildings. However, it is always important to check with your local planning office before starting any construction, as planning rules and regulations can change.

Permitted development rights for porches specify the size, height, and location criteria that must be met in order to proceed without formal consent. By adhering to these guidelines, homeowners can simplify the construction process and avoid the hassle of obtaining planning permission.

The Concept of Permitted Development Rights

Permitted development rights are a set of rules and regulations that determine what types of development can be carried out without the need for planning permission. These rights are granted by the government and are intended to streamline the planning process for certain types of development, including porches.

In the case of porches, permitted development rights allow for the construction of a porch up to three square meters in ground floor area, under three meters in height, and over two meters away from any highway boundary. These dimensions ensure that the porch is a reasonable size and does not have a significant impact on the surrounding environment. Additionally, the highest part of the porch must not exceed three meters in height from ground level, measured as you would an extension. This height limit ensures that the porch does not become too imposing on the property or the neighborhood.

Key Considerations Before Building a Porch

Before starting the construction of a porch, there are several key considerations that homeowners should keep in mind. These considerations include the ground level, ground floor area, property boundary, and the expertise of a porch specialist.

The ground level of the porch is an important factor to consider, as it affects the overall design and functionality of the porch. The porch should be built at a level that is accessible and convenient for entry and exit.

The ground floor area of the porch is also a crucial consideration. Permitted development rights allow for porches up to three square meters in ground floor area. It is important to ensure that the porch does not exceed this limit to avoid the need for planning permission.

The location of the porch in relation to the property boundary is another key consideration. Permitted development rights specify that the porch must be over two meters away from any boundary with a highway. This ensures that the porch does not obstruct the flow of traffic or cause any safety issues.

Exploring Permitted Development Criteria for Porches

Now that we have a basic understanding of permitted development rights for porches, let’s explore the specific criteria that must be met in order to proceed without planning permission. These criteria include size and dimension restrictions, as well as exceptions to permitted development rights.

Size and Dimension Restrictions Under Permitted Development

Permitted development rights specify certain size and dimension restrictions that must be adhered to when building a porch without planning permission. These restrictions ensure that the porch remains within reasonable limits and does not have a significant impact on the surrounding environment.

In terms of size, a porch can measure up to (and including) three square meters of ground floor area without requiring planning permission. The measurement is taken from the outside of the porch, including the wall thickness. This means that if you are planning to build a porch with a floor area of 2 square metres, but the walls are 20cm thick, the internal area would be 2.08 square metres. However, if the walls were 30cm thick, the internal area would be 1.68 square metres. It is important to note that this measurement includes any projections such as sills or pilasters, but does not include steps or ramps.

Exceptions to Permitted Development Rights

While permitted development rights generally allow for the construction of porches without planning permission, there are exceptions to these rights. These exceptions apply to designated areas such as conservation areas, listed buildings, and areas of outstanding natural beauty.

In designated areas, local planning authorities have the power to revoke or restrict permitted development rights. This means that even if a porch would normally fall under permitted development, planning permission may still be required in these areas. It is important to consult with the local planning authority to determine if your property is located in a designated area and if any additional restrictions apply.

Identifying When Planning Permission is Needed

While permitted development rights allow for the construction of porches without planning permission in many cases, there are certain circumstances where planning permission is required. These circumstances include the impact on listed buildings and conservation areas, as well as extending beyond permitted development limits.

Impact on Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas

If your property is a listed building or located in a conservation area, additional restrictions apply to the construction of a porch. Listed buildings are subject to strict control over permitted development rights, and listed building consent is required before adding a porch to a listed building.

Similarly, in conservation areas and other designated areas, local planning authorities may revoke or restrict permitted development rights. This means that even if a porch would normally fall under permitted development, planning permission may be required in these areas. It is important to consult with the local planning authority to determine if your property is located in a designated area and if any additional restrictions apply.

Extending Beyond Permitted Development Limits

While permitted development rights allow for the construction of porches within specific size and dimension limits, extending beyond these limits, such as with a house extension or adding an external door, would require planning permission. If your proposed porch exceeds the permitted development size or height restrictions, it would go beyond permitted development rights and necessitate planning permission. Similarly, if the design features of the porch, such as providing sleeping accommodation or using materials not in keeping with the existing house, would alter the character or appearance of the property, planning permission may be required regardless of porch size.

Navigating the Planning Permission Process

Navigating the process of obtaining planning permission for a porch in the UK may appear daunting and complex. It involves submitting an application to the local planning authority, along with detailed plans and drawings illustrating the property before and after the porch installation. Additionally, you will need to provide a planning or design statement to justify how your proposed porch complies with planning policies. After preparing your documentation, the next step is to submit your application through the government’s planning portal. Following payment of the application fee, the local authority will assess the application based on relevant policies and regulations to decide on approval.

Steps to Determine if Your Porch Requires Planning Permission

To ascertain whether planning permission is necessary for a porch project, you have a few choices. You can attempt to do this yourself; however, it’s important to note that 20% of our planning applications are retrospective, often following a planning enforcement notice, and 99% of these cases involved individuals who were certain it fell under permitted development but were mistaken. It is essential to determine the porch project’s size and location to check against any size restrictions.

Furthermore, you must identify any extra features or property-specific planning limitations, such as listed building status or being situated in a conservation area, or an Article 4 designation that mandates planning permission. Alternatively, you have the option to consult with the local planning authority or an RTPI accredited town planner to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Pre-Application With Your Council

You could consider engaging in a pre-application process with your local council or planning authority before seeking planning permission for a porch. This involves submitting architectural drawings and a written proposal to receive feedback on your porch plans. The pre-application process usually requires a fee of up to £600, has a response time of 4-8 weeks, and offers an official assessment on the project’s feasibility, requirements, and approval prospects. While not a pre-approval or assurance of success, this step can assist in identifying and resolving issues early, ensuring compliance with regulations, and improving the likelihood of project approval.

A Planning Appraisal: Expert Advice From an RTPI Town Planner

If you require prompt responses, choosing a planning appraisal might be more appropriate. An RTPI-accredited town planner can carry out necessary assessments without detailed drawings or a formal proposal, such as reviewing planning regulations, history, and constraints. Instead of waiting up to 8 weeks, you can receive feedback within a day. After the assessment, the town planner will provide a telephone consultation to discuss the findings and address any queries. By the end of the consultation, you will have a comprehensive understanding of whether planning permission is necessary, the criteria for the proposed application, and the probability of approval through the planning system.

How a Town Planner Can Facilitate Your Application Process

Hiring a town planner can streamline the intricate process of securing planning permission for your porch. With a deep understanding of local planning regulations, they can provide useful guidance on manoeuvring through the application process. A town planner can aid in preparing essential paperwork, guaranteeing adherence to applicable laws, and acting as your representative in dealings with the local planning authority. Their proficiency can greatly speed up the approval process and improve the likelihood of a positive result.

The Role of Building Regulations in Porch Construction

In addition to planning permission, building regulations approval is another important aspect to consider when constructing a porch. Building regulations outline the minimum standards for building construction and cover various aspects, including structural integrity, fire safety, and energy efficiency.

Distinction Between Planning Permission and Building Regulations

Understanding the distinction between planning permission and building regulations is essential when considering a porch construction project. Planning permission refers to the formal consent required from your local planning authority for specific types of development, including porch construction. Building regulations, on the other hand, are a set of technical standards that ensure buildings meet certain safety, health, and energy efficiency standards. Building regulations approval is required for certain aspects of a porch, such as windows and electrical installations, to ensure compliance with these standards. It is important to note that obtaining planning permission does not automatically mean that your porch meets building regulations. It is essential to comply with both planning permission and building regulations, including obtaining building regulation approval, to ensure a safe and legal porch construction.

Essential Building Regulations for Porche

When it comes to building a porch, there are specific building regulations that need to be considered. Building regulations approval is required for certain elements of a porch, such as windows and electrical installations. This is to ensure that these elements meet the necessary safety and performance standards. For example, windows in a porch must meet standards for glazing safety, thermal efficiency, and ventilation. Additionally, accessibility requirements, including level access for disabled people, must be taken into account, especially when it comes to the front entrance door. The design of the porch should ensure that it does not hinder the accessibility features already in place, such as ramps for disabled individuals. By adhering to these essential building regulations, you can ensure that your porch is safe and accessible for everyone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of planning permission for your porch is crucial to avoid any legal issues. While some projects fall under permitted development rights, others may require planning permission based on various factors such as size, location, and impact on heritage sites. Navigating through this process involves careful consideration, adherence to building regulations, and engagement with local authorities. By following the proper steps and seeking pre-application advice when needed, you can ensure a smooth approval process for your porch construction project. Stay informed, stay compliant, and enjoy your new porch within the legal framework.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a porch without planning permission?

Yes, you can build a porch without planning permission as long as it falls within the permitted development rights. This means that the porch must meet certain size and height restrictions and be located at least two meters away from any boundary with a highway.

How large can a porch be without requiring planning permission?

A porch can be up to three square meters in ground floor area without requiring planning permission. It is important to note that this measurement includes any walls or other structural elements of the porch.

Are there specific requirements for porches on listed buildings?

Yes, there are specific requirements for porches on listed buildings. Listed building consent is required before adding a porch to a listed building due to the strict control over permitted development rights concerning these buildings. Additionally, in conservation areas and other designated areas, local planning authorities may revoke permitted development rights, making planning permission necessary for porch constructions of any size.