Permitted Development vs. Full Planning: What Can You Build without a Planning Permission?
Author : Garry Stacks | Published On : 21 Sep 2026
When it comes to home renovation in Berkshire, most property owners are confused about what is permitted and what requires the approval of the planning commission. This confusion leads to misunderstanding and they end up wasting time and effort to find out the necessary details. Today, we are going to discuss what to do and what not to do when it is comes to permitted development and full planning.
Permitted Development (No Prior Approval is Needed)
Permitted development covers a wide area. If you are interested in the following renovation works then you don’t need any prior Berkshire planning permission:
- Single-storey rear extensions of about 4 meters in case of detached houses and 3 meters for semi-attached houses are allowed.
- You can convert the loft by adding 50 cubic meters to the roof space for detached houses and 40 cubic meters for semi-detached or terraced houses.
- You can add a porch provided it is of 3 square meters in footprint and 3 meters in height.
Make sure that you don’t extend the measurements mentioned. It is not allowed. If you go for more than what is allowed, the renovation work will be considered as illegal and the authorities can demolish the same.
Full Planning Permission (Prior Permission is Required)
You need prior Berkshire planning permission in case of the following:
- If you are planning to go for two-storey side extensions, you need a prior approval.
- Are you interested in major façade changes? Or do you want to go for a thorough front extension work? If yes, then you need a prior permission.
- Renovating a flat, maisonette or listed building means you need to apply for the planning permission in Berkshire because such properties don’t possess standard development rights.
Final Thoughts
The concerned authority has the absolute right to accept or reject your application. However, if the application is rejected, they will mention the reasons for the same. Make sure that you go through the details and arrange for the necessary documentations and reapply. If you are not sure about what to do and seem confused, you should get in touch with experts who can help you in these matters. It is best to contact a professional from a leading architectural design firm. They are reliable and experts in this field and they will be able to guide and assist you in the best possible manner. What are you waiting for?
About the Author: This contribution has been made by Garry Stacks who has written a number of articles on Berkshire Planning Permission and provides fruitful information.
