GUIDE TO PLANNING
Thinking about extending your home in Hertfordshire? Many common home improvements, from loft conversions to single-storey extensions, might not need full planning permission. These are known as Permitted Development Rights. Understanding them can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. We'll walk you through what you can do, what the limits are, and when you'll still need to talk to your local council.
Let's cut through the jargon. Permitted Development Rights (PDR) are a national grant of planning permission, issued by the UK government. They allow homeowners to carry out certain types of building work and changes of use without needing to submit a full planning application to their local council. Think of it as a pre-approved list of common home improvements.
These rights are set out in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (GPDO 2015), which has been amended several times since. They're designed to make it easier for people to improve their homes, but there are strict limits and conditions you need to be aware of. Fail to follow them, and you could be forced to undo your work, or face enforcement action.
Many homeowners in Borehamwood, Watford, St Albans, and across Hertfordshire start their renovation journey with a knot in their stomach about planning permission. Will my dream extension be approved? How long will it take? What if I get it wrong? These are all valid concerns. You might be wondering if your project even needs permission, or if there's a simpler way. That's exactly what Permitted Development Rights are for – to provide a clear path for many common projects.
We'll help you understand the rules, so you can move forward with confidence, knowing exactly where you stand.
The GPDO 2015 categorises different types of permitted development into 'Classes'. Here's a look at the most common ones for homeowners:
This covers single-storey and two-storey rear extensions. The rules here are often what people think of first when considering PDR.
Thinking of a loft conversion? Many can be done under PDR, provided they meet specific criteria.
This class covers changes like replacing roof materials or adding chimneys.
Adding a porch can often be done without planning permission.
Sheds, garages, summerhouses – these often fall under Class E.
So, you know what PDR are, but how do they stack up against a full planning application? The main difference is the level of scrutiny and the process involved. With PDR, if your project meets all the conditions, you don't need to apply for permission. It's automatically granted by the GPDO.
Full planning permission, on the other hand, requires a detailed application to your local council (like Hertsmere Borough Council or St Albans City and District Council). They'll assess your plans against local and national policies, considering factors like design, impact on neighbours, and environmental concerns. It's a more involved process, often taking 8-13 weeks, and there's no guarantee of approval.
Even with PDR, there are situations where a full application is unavoidable:
This is a crucial point for homeowners in Hertfordshire. Local councils, like St Albans City and District Council or Barnet Council, can issue 'Article 4 Directions'. These directions remove specific permitted development rights in certain areas, often Conservation Areas or areas of special character. For example, parts of St Albans and Barnet have Article 4 Directions in place, meaning you might need planning permission for work that would normally be permitted elsewhere. Always check with your local council if you're in one of these areas.
For larger single-storey rear extensions (up to 8m for detached, 6m for semi/terraced), you'll need to apply for 'Prior Approval' under the neighbour consultation scheme. This isn't a full planning application, but the council will assess specific aspects of your proposal, primarily the impact on neighbours. They'll notify adjoining neighbours, who have 21 days to object. If there are no objections, or if the council deems the impact acceptable, you'll get approval. This process typically takes around 42 days.
Even if your project falls within PDR, it's highly recommended to apply for a 'Lawful Development Certificate' (LDC). This is a formal document from your local council confirming that your proposed or completed work is lawful and doesn't require planning permission. It's not mandatory, but it provides peace of mind and can be invaluable when you come to sell your property. The cost for an LDC in England is currently £206.
At TCM Building & Maintenance, we understand the complexities of Permitted Development Rights in Hertfordshire. Based in Borehamwood, we've helped countless homeowners in Watford, St Albans, Radlett, and surrounding areas navigate these regulations to achieve their dream home improvements. We don't just build; we guide you through the entire process, ensuring your project is compliant and stress-free.
Case Example: A client in Bushey wanted a single-storey rear extension. Initially, they were unsure if it fell under PDR. Our team assessed their plans, confirmed it met the 4m depth limit for detached properties, and advised on the materials to match their existing home. We handled the build, and they now enjoy a beautiful, spacious new living area, all completed without the need for a full planning application.
From initial consultation to final build, we ensure every detail aligns with the GPDO 2015 and any local considerations, including Article 4 Directions in areas like Barnet or St Albans. We'll even assist with Lawful Development Certificate applications if you choose to get one.
The General Permitted Development Order 2015 is a piece of national legislation that grants automatic planning permission for certain types of development, provided they meet specific criteria and conditions. It's the legal framework for Permitted Development Rights in England.
No. PDR generally apply to 'dwellinghouses' (single family homes). They typically don't apply to flats, maisonettes, or properties in Conservation Areas or with Article 4 Directions unless specific conditions are met. Listed Buildings also have very limited PDR.
You can check with your local planning authority (e.g., Hertsmere Borough Council, St Albans City and District Council) directly. Their websites usually have mapping tools or planning portals where you can input your address and find out about any local designations.
If your development doesn't comply with PDR conditions, it's considered unauthorised and could be subject to enforcement action by the council. This might mean you have to alter or even demolish the work. It's always best to be sure before you start.
No, it's not mandatory to obtain a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for work carried out under PDR. However, it provides formal proof from the council that your development is lawful, which can be very useful when selling your property or if there's ever a dispute.
Generally, no. Outbuildings under PDR (Class E) must be for purposes 'incidental to the enjoyment of the dwellinghouse'. This means they should support the main house, like a shed, garage, or home office. Converting an outbuilding into a separate dwelling would almost certainly require full planning permission.
The Prior Approval process for larger single-storey rear extensions typically takes around 42 days from the date the council receives your application. This includes a 21-day neighbour consultation period.
As of 2025, the fee for a Lawful Development Certificate in England is £206. This is a fixed fee set by the government.