Permitted development is not a separate planning authority approval. It is a set of national planning rights that can allow specified development without making a planning application, provided all relevant limitations and conditions are satisfied and the rights have not been removed.
What permitted development means
Householder permitted-development rights sit within the General Permitted Development Order. Different classes cover different types of work, including extensions, roof enlargements and other roof alterations.
Why a project can fall outside permitted development
A proposal may need planning permission because it exceeds a dimensional or design limit, because the property does not benefit from the relevant right, because rights have been removed, or because the type of property or location is subject to different restrictions.
Planning permission involves an application and decision
Where permitted development does not apply, a planning application is submitted to the relevant local planning authority. The authority assesses the proposal against the applicable planning framework, local policies and site-specific considerations.
What a lawful development certificate does
Where a homeowner wants formal confirmation that proposed development is lawful without planning permission, they can consider applying to the local planning authority for a lawful development certificate. This is different from a planning permission.
Building Regulations remain separate
Whether work is permitted development or needs planning permission does not answer whether Building Regulations approval, Party Wall procedures, freeholder consent or other permissions are required.
Frequently asked questions
Is permitted development the same as planning permission?
No. Permitted development is a national planning right that can remove the need for a planning application when all requirements are met.
Can an Article 4 direction affect permitted development?
Yes. Local planning authorities can use Article 4 directions to remove specified permitted-development rights in an area.
Does permitted development mean I can build without Building Regulations?
No. Building Regulations are a separate system.
Official sources
These are the principal official sources used for this guide.