UK Planning Permission Guide 2025
Learn what planning permission is and why it matters for your home extension project. Complete guide to costs, timelines, and avoiding rejection.
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You'll save thousands and avoid rejection when you understand exactly when planning permission is needed and how to prepare a winning application.
Use professional architectural drawings and proper research to demonstrate compliance with local policies and minimize neighbor impact.
Start by checking if you actually need permission, then follow our step-by-step process to maximize approval chances.
What Is Planning Permission
You need official approval before making significant changes to your property. Planning permission is the legal consent from your local planning authority that allows you to proceed with building work that goes beyond basic maintenance or small alterations.
For the purposes of this guide, we'll focus on planning permission for home extensions in England and Wales.
What is planning permission? A planning permission is official consent from your local council that allows you to build extensions or make significant changes to your property. It ensures developments are appropriate for the area and don't harm neighbors or the environment.
Here's what every planning permission application should do:
- Demonstrate compliance: Show your proposal meets local planning policies and building regulations.
- Minimize neighbor impact: Prove your extension won't cause unacceptable harm to adjacent properties.
- Provide clear documentation: Include professional drawings, design statements, and supporting evidence.
When You Need Planning Permission
Understanding when you need planning permission can save you thousands of pounds and months of delays. The UK planning system has specific rules about what you can build without permission through "permitted development rights."
You DON'T need permission for:
- • Single-story rear extension up to 6m (terraced/semi) or 8m (detached)
- • Two-story rear extension up to 3m from original house
- • Side return extension (single-story, within permitted limits)
- • Loft conversion (no dormer windows facing the street)
You DO need permission for:
- • Extension larger than permitted development limits
- • Any extension to the front of the house
- • Property in conservation area or national park
- • Listed building (Grade I, II*, or II)
- • Flat or maisonette
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Get StartedPlanning Permission Costs 2025
Planning permission costs increased significantly in 2025. Here's what you'll pay for government fees and professional services:
Government fees 2025
- Householder application:£528
- Full planning application:£1,056+
- Prior approval:£172
- Appeal application:£1,056
Professional services
- Architect drawings:£2,000-£8,000
- Planning consultant:£1,500-£5,000
- Structural engineer:£1,000-£3,000
- Application prep:£500-£2,000
FAQs About Planning Permission
How much does planning permission cost in 2025?
Government fees start at £528 for householder applications (increased from £462 in 2024). Professional services (architects, planning consultants) typically cost £3,000-£10,000+ additional.
Can I apply for planning permission myself?
Yes, but DIY applications have much lower approval rates. Professional architectural drawings and planning expertise significantly improve your chances of success and save money long-term.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You can appeal (costs £1,056) or submit a new application (costs another £528+). This is why getting professional help upfront often saves money compared to multiple failed attempts.
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