Permitted development rights

Certain types of work and development can be carried out without needing to apply for planning permission. These are called "permitted development rights".

The full legislation on permitted development rights are contained within the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015.

The General Permitted Development Order covers a wide variety of building works and changes of use. In certain cases, before some permitted development rights can be used, the developer must first obtain “prior approval” in relation to specified aspects of the development from the Local Planning Authority.

In relation to alterations to a residential dwelling; features such as rear and side extensions, rear dormer windows, front porches and outbuildings can be built without the requirement for planning permission. However, this is subject to the works being within the parameters and limitations as set out in the relevant sections of the General Permitted Development Order.

In some cases, properties can have their permitted development rights removed by condition of a previous planning approval. The reason for this will be explained on the decision notice for the planning approval. Typically, this applies to residential dwellings and is not uncommon for newly constructed dwellings.

• The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015
• Permitted development rights for householders - technical guidance (PDF)