Do you need planning permission for a porch?

Adding a porch can transform the appearance of buildings, offering an aesthetic upgrade and practical benefits like extra space and improved insulation. However, before you start dreaming about your new entrance, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of planning permission and building regulations. Let’s dive straight into the essentials, keeping things clear and straightforward.

When is porch planning permission not required?

You’ll be pleased to know that, in many cases, you don’t need planning permission for a porch if it meets certain criteria. Specifically, planning permission is not required when your porch is considered permitted development. This means it has to stay within specific size limits and not encroach on certain areas around your property.
For your porch to be classified under permitted development rights, it must not exceed three square metres in ground floor area. Additionally, it should not be taller than three metres above ground level. Another key point is that no part of the porch should be within two metres of any boundary of the original house that faces a road.

How big can a porch be without planning permission?

If your porch design exceeds the permitted development criteria, you’ll need to submit a planning application. The cost of a planning permission application in the UK varies slightly between England and Wales, with fees around £172 in England and £166 in Wales.

Other restrictions that you need to check before building a porch

Even if your porch meets the permitted development criteria, there are other considerations to keep in mind. These include:

Change of use

If your home is a result of a change of use from previous development rights, you might need planning permission.

Article 4 Direction

An Article 4 Direction can restrict development rights in your area, requiring you to obtain planning permission for changes that would normally be permitted.

Listed buildings

Listed buildings have stricter controls, and you’ll need listed building consent for any external changes, including porches.

Designated land

Homes in designated land areas, such as Conservation Areas or National Parks, face tighter controls on development rights.

Restrictive covenants

Check for any restrictive covenants on your property that might prohibit building works, including adding a porch.

What about building regulations?

Building regulations are a separate consideration from planning permission. They ensure that construction projects meet safety and design standards. For porches, building regulation approval is typically not needed if the porch is at ground level, covers less than 30 square metres in floor area, and does not affect level access or electrical installations. However, the original house’s front entrance door must remain in place, and the new porch must not adversely affect any level access.

Remember, while building regulations approval and planning permission are different, they both ensure that your porch and other house extensions are safe, accessible and in harmony with the appearance of buildings in your area. Always check with your local planning authority before starting any building project, whether for detached houses or other types of buildings.

Bring Your Home Upgrade Dreams to Life with Plan-it Windows

Whether you’re considering adding a charming porch, upgrading your windows and doors, or envisioning a full conservatory fit-out, the journey to transforming your home should be as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

That’s where Plan-it Windows steps in. We’re not just about windows and doors; we’re your partners in bringing your home upgrade dreams to life. From the initial design concepts to navigating the complexities of planning permissions and building regulations, we handle everything.

Let Plan-it Windows take care of the details, so you can focus on the exciting parts of transforming your space. Contact us today to discuss your ideas, and let’s make your home improvement dreams a reality.