River Bee Design · Stockbridge, Hampshire
Do I Need Planning Permission for My Home?
Not every home improvement project requires a full planning application.
Some extensions and alterations may be permitted development, while others require planning permission or another form of consent. The correct route depends on the property, its planning history, the proposed work, its location and any restrictions affecting the site.
River Bee Design can assess your property and help you understand the appropriate planning route before you commit to detailed design work.
“Great result, you’ve been super patient with the Planners!”
Related services
Planning
Maximise your property’s planning potential. We assess feasibility, identify constraints, and build your case for approval
House extensions
Single and two-storey, rear, side and wraparound extensions, from planning to construction drawings
Listed buildings
Proposals that respect a building’s heritage while creating practical, well-designed homes
Discuss your property
A short initial conversation is free and can quickly establish a direction. Then step on at whatever stage you need, from a first look at what’s possible to construction-ready drawings.
Planning permission: questions people ask
How long does the planning process typically take?
From initial consultation to approval, most projects take 8–12 weeks. Listed buildings may take longer depending on complexity.
How do I know if I need planning permission?
The answer depends on the property, the proposed work, its planning history, its location and any restrictions affecting the site. River Bee Design can review the proposed work, property and relevant planning constraints and advise on the planning route that may be appropriate.
What is permitted development?
Permitted development rights allow certain types of development to take place without a full planning application where the relevant legal requirements, limitations and conditions are met.
Can I extend my house under permitted development?
Possibly. Whether an extension qualifies depends on factors including the type of extension, its dimensions, its position, the existing property and restrictions affecting the site.
What is a lawful development certificate?
A Lawful Development Certificate is used to establish the lawfulness of existing or proposed development in circumstances where the relevant legal tests are met.
Does a previous extension affect planning permission?
It can. Previous development can affect the remaining permitted development rights and the planning history of the property, so it should be checked before new work is designed.
Do properties in conservation areas have different planning rules?
They can. Conservation area status can affect permitted development rights and can place greater emphasis on the design and appearance of alterations.
What is an Article 4 Direction?
An Article 4 Direction can remove specified permitted development rights in a particular area, meaning that work which might normally be permitted may instead require planning permission.
Do I need planning permission before designing my project?
Not necessarily, but understanding the planning position early can prevent costly design changes later. River Bee Design can assess the likely planning route at the start of a project.
Do listed buildings also need planning permission?
They can. Listed building consent and planning permission are separate matters, and depending on the proposed works, one or both may be required.
More answers on our planning and property questions page.