Seven surprising home features that don’t always need planning permission
Share
Many homeowners don’t realise they can make surprising home additions without the hassle of planning permission.
The team at Pergolux UK have compiled a list of seven surprising features that are considered permitted development for homeowners. Permitted development rights allow homeowners to make certain changes to their property without needing to apply for planning permission. *
Some of the more common and less surprising permitted development projects include extensions, fencing, and garage conversions. But as well as common projects, homeowners could even have a swimming pool or tennis court constructed as long as all rules and restrictions were followed.
Sam Stevens, garden design expert at Pergolux UK said: “It will probably come as quite a shock to people that they could have a swimming pool built without planning permission in their own backyard.
“Even if a swimming pool is out of your budget, there are plenty of other surprising features you could add to your garden without the need for planning permission, such as a conservatory or an outbuilding like a pergola or shed.
“Before starting any work you should make sure that you’re fully aware of all rules in place, as there could be certain restrictions that result in permitted development rights not applying.”
Surprising things that you might not need planning permission for:
Outbuildings
Adding an outbuilding to your home can elevate your living space and increase the value of your property. As outbuildings are considered permitted development, you won’t need to apply for planning permission provided all the conditions are met.
Pergolas
A pergola can add value to your home, both aesthetically and functionally, providing you with the perfect shaded area for relaxation, dining, or entertaining. They’re also considered permitted development and won’t require permission to build.
Conservatory
Another feature you can add to your home that is considered to be permitted development is the addition of a conservatory, again provided all conditions are met. To build without the need for planning permission, it’s important that the conservatory isn’t any bigger than 50% of the area around the original house (including sheds and outbuildings).
Garden decking
Decking can provide a modern aesthetic and versatility to your outdoor space and also falls under permitted development. If you are looking to add decking to your garden then you’ll need to make sure it is no more than 30cm in height, covers no more than 50% of your garden, and that it’s not being built past your property’s front wall.
Garden sauna
Perhaps you want to avoid the crowds in the sauna at your local gym to relax and unwind in the comfort of your own garden instead. Well, the good news is that a garden sauna falls under permitted development, so as long as certain conditions are met you could have your own relaxation haven.
Swimming pool
It may seem quite surprising but homeowners with a large enough garden could add an outdoor swimming pool under their permitted development rights. A luxury few consider, but for those with the space and budget, summer days could be spent poolside in their own backyard.
Tennis courts
If you’ve ever dreamed of being Britain’s next Wimbledon champion and having your own tennis court then perhaps you can. If you’re looking to install floodlights and a high fence you’ll need to gain permission, but the court itself could be built under permitted development rights and the correct conditions.
There are certain rules and restrictions that could result in permitted development rights not applying. Projects should not cover more than 50% of land around the house, and it’s important to check on height restrictions as well. Other key restrictions to take into account include whether your home is in a designated area, if it’s a listed building, or if local councils have an Article 4 direction in place. All of these restrictions can result in permitted development rights not applying. If you are unsure whether works are covered by permitted development rights or not you should seek advice from local planning authorities.
The UK’s Shocking Street Names – And Their Surprising Effect on Property Prices
