Do I Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension?
- Stu Simms
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
If you're thinking about extending your home, one of the first questions you might ask is: "Do I need planning permission for a house extension?" It’s a great question - and one that can make or break your timeline, budget, and design.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the basics of planning permission for extensions in the UK, when it’s required, and how SGS Build can help make the process smooth and stress-free.
✅ What Is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is formal approval from your local council that allows you to carry out building work on your property. Not all home extensions require it, but when they do, it’s crucial to have it in place before work begins.
📏 When Do I Need Planning Permission for a House Extension?
You may not need planning permission if your extension falls within what's known as Permitted Development Rights. These rights permit certain types of work to proceed without formal permission, provided they comply with specific guidelines.
Here are some general guidelines (accurate at the time of writing):
You may NOT need planning permission if:
The extension is no more than 6 metres (for terraced/semi-detached homes) or 8 metres (for detached homes) from the rear wall of the original house.*
The extension is single-storey and under 4 metres in height.
The materials are similar in appearance to the existing house.
It doesn’t cover more than 50% of the land around the house.
It doesn’t extend forward beyond the front elevation.
Side extensions are less than half the width of the original house.
🚨 *Note: For rear extensions between 4 and 8 metres, you must go through the Neighbour Consultation Scheme.
You WILL need planning permission if:
Your property is in a conservation area, National Park, AONB, or is a listed building.
You’re building a double-storey extension.
The extension overlooks neighbours and significantly impacts their privacy or light.
The extension is not in keeping with the local area or existing property design.
🛠️ How SGS Build Can Help
At SGS Build, we help clients across Fordingbridge, the New Forest, and beyond navigate the planning process with ease. From initial concept and drawings to liaising with your local council, we make sure everything is done by the book - so you can focus on the exciting parts!
Whether your project falls under Permitted Development or requires a full planning application, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
📌 Top Tip
Even if your extension seems straightforward, it’s always worth getting expert advice. Planning policies can vary slightly depending on your local authority, so what applies in Dorset might differ slightly from Hampshire.
🏁 In Summary
So, do you need planning permission for a home extension? The answer depends on the size, location, and style of your build - but don’t worry. At SGS Build, we’re here to help you get it right from the start.
👉 Ready to explore your options? Get in touch with us today — let’s talk about your extension plans!
SGS Build — Building spaces that fit your life.
Serving Fordingbridge, the New Forest, Dorset, and surrounding areas.
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