Do I need permission to put a conservatory on my house?

Usually not for planning permission, because most conservatories are permitted development. They are also normally exempt from Building Regulations if they are under 30 m², at ground level, separated from the house and not heated by its system. Listed buildings and designated land are the main exceptions.

What are the planning limits?

  • Rear projection of no more than 4 m on a detached house, or 3 m on other houses
  • Maximum height of 4 m, with eaves no higher than 3 m within 2 m of a boundary
  • No projection beyond the front or a side wall facing a road
  • Extensions and outbuildings together cover no more than half the land around the original house

What are the Building Regulations exemption conditions?

The conservatory must be at ground level and under 30 m², with glazing meeting Part K safety rules. It must be separated from the house by external-quality walls or doors, and the house heating must not extend into it. Building control decides how much glazing counts as enough.

When is permission needed?

Listed buildings, flats, properties in conservation areas or with an Article 4 direction, and any design beyond these limits. Leasehold properties and estates may also need landlord or covenant consent.

Phoenix Windows makes its PVCu frames in-house in Nuneaton and backs installations with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. See our conservatories for more detail.

Thinking about a conservatory or roof? We build and refurbish across Nuneaton, Bedworth, Hinckley, Tamworth and Rugby, and every installation comes with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. Call 02476 350 330, or request a quote.

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