Do You Need Planning Permission for a Conservatory?
By David Hepburn
Adding a conservatory to your home is an exciting way to gain extra living space and bring more light into your day-to-day life. But before you rush into any building work, it’s essential to know whether you need planning permission or if your project will be exempt under permitted development rules. In this blog post, I’ll explain the main points about conservatory planning permission, building regulations, and the recent changes that might affect your plans.
Understanding the Basics
A conservatory is often considered a permitted development if it meets specific conditions, which means you don’t need planning permission to build it. However, certain limits and rules must be followed. If you break these rules (for instance, by building a conservatory that’s too large or too close to your boundary), you risk having to remove or modify the structure later—costly and inconvenient!
Why This Matters
- If you sell your home, potential buyers (and their solicitors) will check that any extensions meet planning permission and building regulations.
- Non-compliance can slow down or derail a house sale.
- Some homeowners are caught out by size limits and boundary conditions.
At Hepburn Architects, we encourage anyone considering a conservatory to get expert advice first, so you don’t land yourself in a tricky situation.
When Do I Need Planning Permission?
Key Criteria for Planning Permission
You might need planning permission for a conservatory if:
- Over 50% of Your Garden is Covered
- If your new conservatory plus any other buildings (e.g., sheds or garages) will cover more than half the land around the “original house,” it might need planning permission.
- It Extends Beyond Permitted Limits
- For a detached house, you can generally extend up to 8 metres to the rear under permitted development.
- For a semi-detached or terraced house, the limit is usually 6 metres.
- Anything bigger than these measurements may require a neighbour consultation scheme or a formal application for planning permission.
- It’s Built to the Front or Side Facing a Road
- Extensions that stick out at the front or on the side facing the road almost always need planning permission.
- It Exceeds Height Restrictions
- If the eaves or ridge height is taller than your existing house.
- If it’s more than 4 metres high in total (for rear conservatories).
- Special Circumstances
- Living in a designated area (e.g., conservation area).
- Owning a listed building (Listed Building Consent may be needed).
- Being subject to Article 4 Directions (where permitted development rights are restricted).
Planning Permission for Conservatories Built to the Side
- More than single-storey or over 4 metres in height.
- Wider than half the width of the original house.
Planning Permission for Conservatories Built to the Rear
- Extends beyond the rear wall by over 6 metres (semi/terraced) or 8 metres (detached).
- Is more than 4 metres in height.
How Close Can You Build a Conservatory to a Boundary?
Technically, you can build right up to the boundary if your conservatory is less than 3 metres high and doesn’t cover more than half your garden. However, you must also consider the Party Wall Act 1996, which requires you to notify neighbours if you build near or on a shared boundary.
Building Regulations for Conservatories
When Are Conservatories Exempt from Building Regulations?
A conservatory is usually exempt if it:
- Is less than 30 square metres in floor area.
- Is built at ground level.
- Is separated from the main house by an external wall (including doors or windows).
- Has a heating system independent from the main house.
- Meets safety standards for glazing and electrical installations.
Open-Plan Conservatories
If you remove the separating wall or doors to create an open-plan design, your conservatory must comply fully with building regulations, especially regarding insulation and energy efficiency.
Recent Changes: Part O and Part F 2022
Prompted by concerns about climate change and overheating in homes, updated regulations (Part O and Part F) came into effect in 2022. These rules focus on:
- Limiting unwanted solar gains in summer.
- Providing adequate ventilation or mechanical extraction.
If your conservatory is over 30 square metres, you might need to include background ventilators or ensure you have purge ventilation. Always check with a professional if these rules apply to you.
Changing Your Conservatory Roof
If you switch from a glass roof to a tiled roof, it may no longer be deemed a “conservatory.” Instead, it becomes a single-storey extension, which brings different rules:
- If it meets all permitted development requirements (size, height, location), you don’t need new planning permission.
- However, because it’s no longer officially a conservatory, you must ensure it meets building regulations for an extension.
FAQs About Permission for Conservatories
Below are some of the most common questions people ask about planning permission for a conservatory.
1. Do I need planning permission for a small conservatory that covers less than 50% of my garden?
If your conservatory doesn’t exceed 50% of the land around the original house and complies with height and boundary rules, it’s often exempt under permitted development. Double-check local guidelines or consult a professional to be sure.
2. Can I build my conservatory right up to the boundary?
Yes—if it’s under 3 metres high and meets permitted development size limits. However, the Party Wall Act may require you to inform your neighbours first.
3. What happens if I don’t follow the rules?
You could be asked to demolish or significantly alter your conservatory. This can be costly and time-consuming. You might also face issues when you sell your home later.
4. Is building regulation approval needed even if I don’t need planning permission?
Yes. Planning permission and building regulations are separate matters. Even if you’re safe under permitted development, you usually need to comply with building regulations unless your structure is fully exempt.
5. Will changing my conservatory to an open-plan extension affect regulations?
Yes, removing the external doors and walls will likely mean you need full building regulation approval to ensure your home meets energy efficiency and structural requirements.
FAQs About Hepburn Architects
1. Who are Hepburn Architects?
At Hepburn Architects, we’re a dedicated team of architectural experts offering advice and support for home extensions, conservatories, and more. We aim to simplify the planning permission process and help you create functional, beautiful spaces.
2. Do Hepburn Architects handle planning permission applications?
Absolutely. Our team is experienced in dealing with local planning authorities, submitting planning applications, and ensuring your conservatory or extension project meets all building regulations.
3. Can Hepburn Architects help with listed buildings or homes in conservation areas?
Yes. We have extensive experience navigating Listed Building Consent and Article 4 Directions. We’ll guide you through every step, from initial design to final approval.
4. Why should I choose Hepburn Architects for my conservatory project?
We provide a comprehensive service—from the initial design concept to handling paperwork and coordinating with builders. Our goal is to make your conservatory project hassle-free, ensuring it matches your vision and complies with all regulations.
Conclusion
Adding a conservatory can transform your home, offering extra space, abundant natural light, and a fantastic link to your garden. While you often won’t need planning permission if you meet permitted development rules, it’s crucial to double-check building regulations and local guidelines.
If you’re unsure, a quick conversation with a professional can prevent expensive mistakes down the line. At Hepburn Architects, we’re here to help you navigate the planning process so you can enjoy a beautiful, compliant conservatory.
Ready to take the first step? Get in touch with us today and discover how we can support your project from planning to completion.
Thank you for reading. If you have any more questions about planning permission for your conservatory, feel free to contact Hepburn Architects for expert guidance and advice!
