Permitted development
What is permitted development, and how do I know if my project qualifies?
What is permitted development, and how do I know if my project qualifies?
Permitted development is building work granted automatic planning permission by the General Permitted Development Order, within strict limits on size, height and siting. Most small householder projects — many extensions, loft dormers, outbuildings and driveways — use this route to avoid a planning application. Designations like conservation areas and Article 4 directions narrow or remove it.
What permitted development means
The rights are organised into Classes (A for extensions, B for roof additions, D for porches, E for outbuildings, F for hard surfaces) each with detailed conditions and limits.
Permitted development is not the same as "no rules": the work must stay inside every limit for its class, and flats have no householder permitted development rights at all.
“This provides permitted development rights for the enlargement, improvement or other alteration of a house.”PD technical guidance, Class A · full text in the library → · official source →
What it means for your project
If your project fits inside the limits and no designation removes your rights, you may need only a lawful development certificate — worth having at resale to prove the work was lawful.
A single measurement over a limit, or a designation on your address, can move a project from permitted development to a full application. Checking before you design is faster than appealing after.
Where permitted development matters most
Does permitted development apply at your address?
A Planning Policy report applies the official rules to your exact property: the designations on your address, the policies that bear on your project — quoted verbatim — and what decided applications nearby show. Generated in minutes.