Historically, planning permission has been required for most alterations and additions to properties, so that the long term interests of the local community are taken into account aswell as the property owners. However changes made to the system in February 2012 now mean that there are many situations where no formal application for planning permission is required. These situations are called permitted development, and are designed to make it easier for householders to make minor changes to their properties and install small scale renewables technologies, allowing planning authorities to focus on larger developments.
Certain small scale developments to residential properties, including extensions, improvements, and alterations as well as building in the garden are now permitted to an even greater degree. For example, a single storey rear extension to a detached house, not within one metre of the boundary, projecting less than four metres to the rear and no higher than four metres does not need planning permission. The rules are different for flats and terraced houses and depend on factors such as height, location, boundaries and size. There are limitations and restrictions, but depending on what sort of development you propose, you may find that you do not need planning permission.
Being green
Whether with solar panels, biofuels or otherwise, there are increasing opportunities for property owners to take advantage of renewable energy technology. Not only can people “do their bit” for the environment, but they can also make real savings on energy costs.
Recent government strategies to reduce greenhouse gases and fuel poverty encourage the use of alternative energy, and the new legislation on permitted development provides specific guidance on “microgeneration equipment”. This includes biomass, biofuel, wind, solar power and water or photovoltaic technologies to generate up to 50 kilowatts of electricity or produce up to 45 kilowatts of thermal (heat) energy.
As there are no application or publicity requirements for permitted developments, if you are considering a small scale renewable development, then it is worth investigating exactly what falls within the scope of permitted development before making a final decision on the type of technology to install.
Non compliance
Although this is all good news for household development and a lot of red tape has been removed, you should always check first. Failing to apply for permission when needed may not only annoy your neighbours but could also result in the planning authority requiring you to make changes or even remove your extension or work altogether, meaning wasted expense with no end result.
There are also other consents you may need, such as a Building Warrant, or if the property is within a conservation area or is a listed building, the rules on permitted development are restricted.
Talk to your solicitor to check that your plans fall within ground that you own and make sure that they are not contrary to any of the title conditions affecting your property.