Planning Permission for Conservatories
One of the most fundamental aspects of preparing to add a conservatory to your home is establishing what the requirements are regarding planning permission for conservatories in your area. Although you should always check with your local authorities, conservatories in England and Wales usually do not require planning permission, unless your property has been added to in the past. You may then have exceeded your 'permitted development' area, in which case, you will need permission.
Conservatory Planning Permission Exemption Requirements
However, for this to apply, your conservatory needs to meet a number of requirements.
- The extension does not have its own plumbing or drainage facilities.
- The floor area is no more than 30 square metres.
- The roof of the conservatory is completely transparent and at least three quarters of the area is glazed sheeting.
- The extension is separated from the rest of the house and property by means of a door.
- The site of the extension is on the ground, as opposed to being elevated.
- At least half of the wall area is comprised of windows that are substantially glazed with glazing that meets the official requirements.
- Any heating mechanism within the structure has its own on/off controls. Learn about thermal control for conservatories.
Consider your Conservatory's Ultimate Purpose
When deciding whether you need to get planning permission for your conservatory, an important aspect of the decision is to consider its final purpose. If, for example, your conservatory is going to take the form of a kitchen, plumbing will be required which necessitates building permission. At the end of the day it is wise to seek the advice of your local authority because it is always better, when it comes to planning permission for your conservatory, to be safe than sorry.