If you are considering building a conservatory on your property, you will need to find out whether you need planning permission. Depending on the location of your home, it may be advisable to speak to your local council, or if you live in Wales, to consult with the Welsh government.
Most conservatories are not required to have planning permission, as long as they meet certain restrictions. For example, the extension must be less than half the size of the original house. It should also be built in the rear or side of the property. You should also check with your neighbours if they have any objections. If your neighbours are happy with the proposed plan, you can submit your application online and an Anglian representative will process it.
As with extensions, the rules are strict. If you intend to build a new conservatory, you should be aware that your conservatory cannot exceed 3 metres in height and that it can not be bigger than the boundary wall of your property. In addition, your conservatory should not be more than 50% of the total area of the land surrounding your house. This means that you should only use materials and construction methods that are similar to the rest of your property.
As with extensions, the regulations will also apply to any new structural openings. For instance, you should not install a raised platform, a chimney or a microwave antenna, as these will infringe on your neighbor’s privacy.
As with most developments, you should check with your local planning department before starting work. They will be able to flag any issues and make recommendations. A failed application can result in fines, so it is important that you check all the relevant legislation.
The laws that govern conservatories and extensions in the UK are subject to change, so you should be aware of any changes that could affect your project. You can also check the Planning Portal to see if any restrictions are in place in your local area.
If your conservatory is a listed building, it will need to be approved under Article 4 Direction or Listed Building Consent. A Certificate of Lawfulness will be issued if it meets the criteria. In England, Scotland and Wales, a neighbour consultation scheme will be used. The scheme is 42 days in length and you will be notified about your plans, along with the opportunity to object.
The rules for conservatories are the same as those for single storey extensions. However, there are some exceptions. If you are planning a new build, you may be able to get a VAT exemption on the cost of your conservatory. Alternatively, you can avoid the VAT by applying for a Listed Building Permission.
If you are planning a conservatory that is larger than the permitted development allowances, you will likely need to get planning permission. The rules apply to both detached and semi-detached houses in England. In Scotland and Wales, the rules are different. If you are planning a conservatory for a listed building, you should contact your local authority to find out more about their policies.
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