Can I Build a Porch Without Planning Permission?
7/18/20242 min read
Porches can be a valuable and relatively low cost way to add some extra space for to your home. It can also provide storage for deliveries, and improve the entrance to your property for you and guests. If you are looking to add a porch to your home, and are wondering if porches need planning permission, our blog post has you covered!
Understanding Permitted Development Rights
Permitted development rights are a set of legal provisions that allow homeowners to carry out specific types of building work without the need for planning permission. These rights are provided through the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015, which outlines what alterations and extensions can be made to dwellings without formal planning permission. One important aspect of these rights is that they apply to various types of structures, including porches, provided certain conditions and limitations are met. These are explained below, however it is important to note that Permitted Development Rights do not apply in all circumstances, which is addressed later on in this blog post.
Height and Size
Permitted development rights require that porches do not exceed three square meters in ground area, and it must not be more than three meters in height. As a result if your porch is more than three metres tall, or covers an area of more than 3 metres, planning permission is required.
Location
Porches need to be located outside of an external door, meaning that they don't have to be located at the front of your home, they could be to the side or the back of your house. However, the permitted development rights require that porches are not located within 2 metres of any boundary that fronts a highway.
Do Permitted Development Rights Always Apply?
No, if you have read the above and your proposed porch is of the right size and location, you may still need planning permission. This is because Permitted Development Rights may have been removed from your home through an Article 4 Direction or a planning condition. Local Councils often use Article 4 Directions to restrict permitted development rights in Conservation Areas, so it is always worth checking with your local council. Permitted Development Rights do not apply to listed buildings.
It is also worth remembering that flats and maisonettes do not have permitted development rights, and as such, even if your porch meets the size requirements, planning permission is required.
If you are in doubt, we always recommend seeking professional advice. A Lawful Development Certificate can be used to confirm that your works are lawful. Cedar Planning are experienced in providing advice on a range of planning matters, including porches.
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Contacts
Email: info@cedarplanning.co.uk
Phone: 07418 610156
Office (by appointment only) Unit A, 82 James Carter Road, Mildenhall, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 7DE


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