Do I Need Planning Permission for My Renovation? (UK Homeowner Guide)

f you’re planning a renovation, extension, or home improvement project, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: do I need planning permission?
The answer depends on what you’re doing, where your property is located, and how much you plan to change it.

This guide explains when planning permission is required in the UK, when it isn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is approval from your local council to carry out certain types of building work or changes to a property. It’s designed to control development, protect neighbours, and ensure changes fit the local environment.

It’s important to note that planning permission is different from building regulations approval—many projects need one, the other, or both.

When You DON’T Need Planning Permission

Many home renovations fall under Permitted Development Rights, meaning you can carry out work without submitting a planning application.

Common examples include:

✅ Internal Renovations

• Replacing kitchens or bathrooms
• Moving internal walls (non-structural)
• Electrical or plumbing upgrades
• Redecorating

Planning permission is not required for internal works unless the building is listed.

✅ Loft Conversions (Often)

You usually don’t need planning permission if:

• The volume increase is under 40m³ (terraced) or 50m³ (detached/semi)
• No extension goes beyond the existing roof slope facing the road
• Materials are similar to the existing property
• The conversion doesn’t include a balcony

Building regulations approval is still required.

✅ Single-Storey Extensions

Permitted development may apply if:

• Rear extensions are within size limits
• Height limits are not exceeded
• The extension doesn’t cover too much garden space

Some larger extensions may be allowed under the Neighbour Consultation Scheme.

✅ Garage Conversions

Generally allowed without planning permission if:

• The structure isn’t enlarged
• The property isn’t listed
• Parking requirements are still met

When You DO Need Planning Permission

Planning permission is usually required for:

❌ Large or Multi-Storey Extensions

• Double-storey extensions
• Extensions that exceed permitted development limits

❌ Changes to the Front of the Property

• New front-facing extensions
• Major alterations affecting the property’s appearance

❌ Change of Use

• Converting a house into flats
• Changing residential to commercial use
• Short-term holiday lets in certain councils

❌ Listed Buildings

Any work—internal or external—requires Listed Building Consent.

❌ Properties in Conservation Areas

Extra restrictions apply. Even permitted development rights may be limited or removed.

What About Building Regulations?

Even if planning permission isn’t required, building regulations approval almost always is.

This ensures work meets safety, structural, insulation, fire safety, and energy efficiency standards.

Examples of work needing building regs approval:

• Structural alterations
• Electrical and plumbing work
• Loft conversions
• Extensions

What Happens If You Don’t Get Planning Permission?

Carrying out work without required permission can lead to:

• Enforcement action by the council
• Fines or legal costs
• Being forced to undo the work
• Problems selling or remortgaging your home

In some cases, you may apply for retrospective planning permission, but approval isn’t guaranteed.

How to Check If You Need Planning Permission

To avoid uncertainty:

Contact your local planning authority

Check permitted development rules for your property type

Apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for written confirmation

Consult an architect or planning consultant

A Lawful Development Certificate is especially useful when selling your home later.

Planning Permission Costs & Timescales (UK)

• Typical application fee: ~£258 (householder application)
• Decision time: Usually 8 weeks
• Lawful Development Certificate: Optional but recommended

Final Thoughts

So, do you need planning permission for your renovation?
Often no, but you must be certain before work begins.

As a rule:

• Internal changes = usually no planning permission
• Structural or external changes = possibly required
• Listed buildings & conservation areas = always check

When in doubt, always confirm with your local council or a professional—getting it wrong can be costly.