Do you need planning permission for a new driveway or patio?

Construction of new driveway

Mick’s FAQ’s – Do you need planning permission for a new driveway or patio?

Here we outline what you need to know with regards to what is and isn’t required for a new driveway:

Where planning permission for a new driveway is NOT required:

1. There is no limit to the size of hard surface area used, if it is constructed in a permeable product.
2. You can use impermeable hard landscaping, but provision must be made for rainwater to drain into a softer landscape. This could be grass or a specially constructed soak-away, but the area intended must be less than 5 metres.
3. The new government legislation only affects front garden areas of the property. There are no restrictions for other areas around the house for hard surfaces at or near the ground level.

Where planning permission for a new driveway IS required:

1. If more than 5 metres square and the rainwater from the impermeable surface at ground level has no where to run (other than into a public road or drainage system), then permission is required.
2. If the property is a listed building.
3. As it is the homeowners responsibility to apply for planning permissions make sure you check to see if your property borders or is on the following: World Heritage sites, conservation areas, land on national parks or areas of outstanding beauty. Always enquire in advance of any project.

Dropping kerbs for a new driveway

1. You will also need to obtain planning permission from your local council to drop a kerb, as the pavement which is altered, may need strengthening. This may apply if you need to make access into your garden across the council footpath.
2. This is important is will protect any services which are buried in the ground, such as drainage and water pipes.
3. If you are not completely sure on your permission rights, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. MD Paving will be more than happy to give you the advice you need.

 

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