It is essential to know whether you need Planning Permission for loft conversion or not before starting the project. The Planning Permission requirement is based on the type and extent of your loft conversion project. Some types of loft conversion are categorised as permitted developments for which Planning Permission is not needed, whereas others require Planning Permission.
This guide includes the conditions under which loft conversion is regarded as a permitted development. It also covers information about Planning Permission requirements for different types of loft conversions, their cost, approval time, and validity.
Based on the conditions and limits given in Schedule 2, Part 1, Class B of The Town and Country Planning (England) Order 2015, the following conditions do not demand Planning Permission because of categorisation as permitted development:
The permitted development rights are only applicable to homes, and Planning Permission will be required for a:
Planning Permission requirements vary based on the type of loft conversion as follows:
This type of loft conversion does not need Planning Permission as it is created by vertically extending your existing roof’s slope. It does not involve significant exterior changes to your home; therefore, it is categorised as a permitted development.
Hip-to-gable loft conversion falls under permitted development as it involves the formation of a vertical wall by straightening your roof’s sloping side. It does not require Planning Permission approval as it does not involve significant exterior changes to the roof structure.
Mansard loft conversion project requires obtaining Planning Permission approval as it involves raising the pitch of your roof’s one side to make it vertical with a flat top. This type of loft conversion is not a permitted development as it involves significant structural changes to your roof.
The application fee for Planning Permission varies from £202 to £206 in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to alternate and extend a single dwelling property. However, the application fee can cost up to £230 in some cases. On the other hand, there is no fee for applications for listed buildings or demolishing in conservation areas.
Based on the type and extent of your loft conversion project, the time required for Planning Permission approval by the local planning authorities varies as follows:
The validity of a Planning Permission notice is almost 3 years, starting from the date they were granted. You need to start your project at any time during these 3 years but it can be completed at any later time.
Planning Permission approval is not required for loft conversion projects falling under the category of permitted development. But if you exceed the limitations and restrictions specified according to permitted development rights, then you must have to obtain this approval to carry out your project.
