Owning a Property

When Do You Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension?

Not all home extensions require planning permission, but many do. This guide explains exactly when a formal planning application is required and what the process involves.

Published: 16 Mar 2026 · Updated: 16 Mar 2026 · 6 min read

#HomeOwner#PropertyOwner#PlanningPermission#HomeExtension#Planning#PropertyPassportUK

Permitted Development First

Before applying for planning permission, you should first check whether your proposed extension falls within Permitted Development (PD) rights. Many single-storey rear extensions, loft conversions, and outbuildings can be built without a planning application. See our guide to Permitted Development Rights for full details.

You will need a formal planning application when:

The works exceed PD limits (e.g. a two-storey side extension or a large rear extension beyond PD thresholds)
The property is in a conservation area, AONB, or National Park where PD rights are restricted
The property is a listed building (Listed Building Consent is also required)
An Article 4 Direction removes PD rights in the area
The works affect a flat or maisonette (which have no PD rights)

Types of Planning Application

Application type	When to use
Householder Planning Application	Extensions and alterations to an existing house
Full Planning Application	New buildings, change of use, or where householder app does not apply
Listed Building Consent	Any works affecting a listed building, inside or outside
Prior Approval	Certain larger extensions under the neighbour consultation scheme
Lawful Development Certificate	Confirmation that works are/were lawful without full permission

The Householder Planning Application Process

1. **Pre-application advice**, Many LPAs offer a paid pre-application advice service. This can be valuable for larger or sensitive schemes, though it is not obligatory.

2. **Submit the application**, Applications are submitted via the Planning Portal (planningportal.planning.gov.uk). You will need drawings (site plan, floor plans, elevations) and a fee.

3. **Validation**, The LPA checks the application is complete and valid.

4. **Consultation**, Neighbours are notified and have 21 days to comment. The LPA may also consult statutory consultees (e.g. the local highways authority).

5. **Decision**, The LPA has a statutory target of **8 weeks** to determine a householder application. The decision is either granted, granted with conditions, or refused.

Planning Fees

Planning fees in England are set nationally by the government. As of 2026, the fee for a householder planning application is **£258**. This is a non-refundable fee payable on submission regardless of outcome.

What Happens If Planning Is Refused?

If planning permission is refused, you have two main options:

**Appeal** to the Planning Inspectorate within six months of the decision
**Resubmit** a revised application addressing the reasons for refusal (the first resubmission within 12 months is free of charge)

Material Considerations

Planning decisions are made on the basis of material planning considerations, including:

Impact on the character and appearance of the area
Impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties (overlooking, overshadowing, loss of light)
Highway and parking implications
Flood risk

Personal circumstances, property values, and private covenants are not material planning considerations and will not influence the decision.

Building Regulations

Planning permission and Building Regulations approval are separate requirements. Even where planning permission is not needed, Building Regulations approval may still be required for structural works, electrical work, drainage, and insulation. See our separate guide on Building Regulations Approval.

Storing your approved planning drawings and decision notice on Property Passport UK keeps all your property's documentation in one place, making it simple to share with your conveyancer when you sell.