Do I Need Planning Permission?

It is possible to extend most residential dwellings a small amount, or construct outbuildings such as garden sheds can be erected without the need for an application for planning permission. This is a national consent, granted by Central Government and is known as ‘permitted development’. Further specific details about ‘permitted development’ can be found on the Planning Portal website.

However there are different and more stringent restrictions in Conservation Areas, most of which in Hart are also covered by Article 4 directions.

Flats and commercial premises do not have the same permitted development rights as dwelling houses and most works will require an application for planning permission.

The Planning Office can offer guidance to help you decide whether an application for planning permission is required for a proposal either on the phone (01252 774419) or at the planning surgery. The Council can also research the planning history of a site to check if there are any conditions that could restrict development – there is a charge for this service.

However if you wish to ascertain formally whether a proposal falls within the category of ‘permitted development’, then you should apply for a ‘Certificate of Proposed Lawful Use or Development’ that will confirm this. There is a fee for this Certificate. As well as completing the relevant forms, the Council also requires details of the proposal.

The Council strongly advises that if you are proposing to undertake works, you obtain a Certificate as this will confirm that the development is lawful as this will be useful when the property is sold.

There are booklets that explain about ’permitted development’, business use and development, signs and advertisements and satellite dishes all produced by Central Government and available from the Planning Office on request. Additional guidance leaflets on various topics can be downloaded from the website – see the download section at the side.