Do I Need Planning Permission For A Porch?

Porches are sometimes underappreciated by householders which seems a little harsh when you consider just how many different functions they serve.

• A beautifully designed porch enhances the stylishness of an entranceway and reflects positively on the people who live behind it.

• The modern-day porch comes fitted with a number of security features that make homes safer and more secure.

• It is second nature to use a porch as a place for storage, somewhere you can keep shoes, coats, hats, umbrellas etc. handily placed for when you’re entering and exiting the house.

When the benefits of porch ownership are outlined like this it may trigger in you a new-found respect for porches, so much so that you’re persuaded to have one fitted at your home.

But before you head for your nearest Hazlemere showroom to pick out a porch you love, it helps knowing when a porch installation does and doesn’t need planning permission.

A porch is exempt from planning permission and classed as a permitted development at houses when it fulfils the following:

1. The ground floor area (measured externally) would not exceed three square metres.
2. No part would be more than three metres above ground level (height needs to be measured in the same way as for a house extension).
3. No part of the porch would be within two metres of any boundary of the dwellinghouse and the highway.

Permitted development rights do not apply to:

• Flats and maisonettes
• Converted houses or houses created through the permitted development rights to change use
• Other buildings
• Areas where there may be a planning condition, Article 4 Direction or other restriction that limits permitted development rights.

The good news is that if planning permission does need to be obtained ahead of a porch installation taking place, Hazlemere will handle this on your behalf.

For a FREE consultation, please book an appointment to see a Hazlemere customer advisor.