Bigger extensions without planning permission- Permitted Developments May 2013

On the 30/05/2013 the Amendments to Part 1 of the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) came into effect. Among other things this allows larger single storey home extensions to be built under Permitted Developments, subject to a 'light touch' neighbours consultation.

The new process will only apply in the following cases:
- extensions projecting between 3 and 6m from the original rear wall of the house (for terrace and semi detached properties)
- extension projecting between 4 and 8 m from the original wall of the house for detached properties
- maximum eaves height of 3m
- maximum roof height of 4m
- external materials to match the main house

Before beginning the development the applicant must notify the local planning authority.
The homeowner will submit to the Council a Prior Notification Form (http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/1app/forms/notification_of_a_proposed_larger_home_extension.pdf) and a plan indicating the location and dimensions of the proposed extension. The plan does not need to be drawn to scale but needs to indicate clearly how far the extension will project from the original rear wall. The homeowner will also list the addresses of all adjoining properties (to the side and to the rear).
The Council will notify the adjoining owners; if no objections are raised by the neighbours within 21 days the development can be carried out. If a neighbour objects then the council will assess the effect of the proposed extension on the amenity of the adjoining properties and decide whether the development should be allowed or refused. In order to asses the effect of the extension on the adjoining properties the Council will ask for additional information (existing and proposed plans and elevations). Prior Approval will be given or refused within 42 days from the date of the notification and there is no fee payable to the council.
If the development is refused the applicant has a right to appeal.
The extension must be completed before the 30/05/2016. On completion, the homeowner needs to notify the Council; a planning officer (in Bristol at least) will visit the site to ascertain compliance of the 'as built' extension.

This change does not apply to Conservation Areas, National Parks or AONB.

It is worth noting that smaller extensions (up to 3-4m from the original rear wall of the house) will continue to be allowed under the previous Permitted Development regime.  As before, a Certificate of Lawful Development can be requested from the Council subject to the submission of drawings (existing and proposed plans and elevations) and a £86 fee.

Dittrich Hudson Vasetti architects in Bristol have in-depth experience of domestic projects and look forward to assist their clients on home extensions and alterations.