If planning permission is necessary we offer a Fixed Price Planning Application Service, where we will make the application on your behalf and monitor its progress throughout the statutory approval period, for your complete peace of mind. Alternatively we can supply you with the necessary plans for your own submission.

Many types of buildings and structures can be built within your boundary without the need to apply for planning permission. This is known as Permitted Development Rights. The types of buildings include garages, sheds, workshops, greenhouses, accommodation for animals, summer houses, swimming pool enclosures, changing facilities and many other kinds of structures.

In rural areas oak framed buildings are the preferred type of structure, as they are considered to have a more rustic appearance than other brick built structures.

If your proposed scheme and your site meet the following criteria then you may be able to construct your proposed building using your Permitted Development Rights, without the need to seek planning permission:

• The proposed building will be within the curtilage of your garden
• The proposed building will be sited behind the main building or at least 20 metres from the nearest public highway, bridle path, footpath and or byway
• At least 5 metres from the existing house
• At Least 1 metre from the boundary
• Under 3 metres in height or under 4 metres in height for a pitched roof - measured from the highest adjacent ground.

As a guide, you will need planning permission if any of the following apply:

• If more than half the area of land around the original house would be covered by the addition and or other buildings
• If your house is listed and you want to put up a building or structure with a volume of more than 10 cubic metres
• If the building or structure is not to be used for the purposes ancillary to the domestic use and is to be used instead, for running a business or storing goods for business use
• If you live in a Conservation Area, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or the Broads, and you want to put up a building or structure with a volume of more than 10 cubic metres (though it might be allowed as an extension).