Free planning route checker · England
What Can I Build
Answer a few straightforward questions to see whether your idea could fall under permitted development, needs prior approval, or is likely to require a planning application.
A useful first check, not a legal decision.
Every home and site is different. KPLan can verify the result and prepare the drawings you need.
What are you thinking of building?
Choose the closest match. You can run the checker again for another part of your project.
Please choose a project type.
Tell us about the property
These points can change which national permitted development rights are available.
Used only in the result displayed on this device.
Please choose the property type.
A few details about the idea
Use your best estimate. Measurements should include any previous additions where the question says so.
Initial result
Your likely planning route
Professional review recommended
Recommended next steps
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This automated result is introductory guidance for common projects in England. It is not planning advice, a legal determination, a guarantee of approval or confirmation that development is lawful. Local policy, planning history, restrictive conditions, exact dimensions, site context and design can change the answer. Building regulations, Party Wall requirements, covenants and other consents are separate.
From idea to accurate drawings
Knowing the route is the first step
Permitted development does not mean “no rules”. Your project must meet every relevant limitation and condition, and those rights can be restricted for individual homes or local areas. A lawful development certificate can provide formal evidence where a project qualifies.
KPLan prepares clear planning and building-control drawing packages for homes across County Durham, Newcastle, Northumberland, North Yorkshire and further afield.
ExtensionsLoft conversionsGaragesHMOsNew homesBuilding control
Permitted development
National rights may allow certain work without a planning application, but only where all limits and conditions are satisfied.
Prior approval
Some permitted development routes still require the council to assess specific matters before work begins, such as larger rear extensions.
Planning permission
Requiring an application does not mean your proposal will be refused. Design quality and local context become especially important.
Common questions
Planning permission checker FAQs
Can this tool guarantee that I do not need planning permission?
No. Only the local planning authority can make a formal determination. If certainty is important, consider applying for a lawful development certificate with accurate drawings.
Does permitted development apply to flats?
Most householder permitted development rights do not apply to flats and maisonettes. External work to a flat will commonly need planning permission, along with any necessary freeholder consent.
Will I still need building regulations approval?
Often, yes. Planning and building regulations are separate. Most extensions, loft conversions and garage conversions require building regulations approval even where planning permission is not needed.
What if my house has already been extended?
Several limits are measured from the “original house”, meaning the house as first built or as it stood on 1 July 1948. Work by a previous owner can therefore use up part of the available allowance.
Does needing planning permission mean the idea is unlikely to be approved?
No. It only means an application is likely to be the correct route. Approval depends on the design, planning policies, neighbouring amenity, highway considerations, heritage and other site-specific factors.
Guidance logic checked against the Planning Portal common projects guidance and the government’s householder permitted development technical guidance. Rules shown are for England.