Works requiring building control approvals

Works that don't require permission

  • Agricultural buildings and buildings used principally for keeping animals. These buildings must not be used as a dwelling, must be at least one-and-a-half times their height from any building with sleeping accommodation, and must have a fire exit not more than 30m from any point in the building.
  • Carports open on at least two or more sides. Ends can be counted as sides and doors/windows are allowed between the house and carport.
  • Conservatories built at ground level with less than 30m² in floor area, and built with safety glass and a transparent roof. 
  • Detached, single-storey buildings with a floor area not exceeding 30m², which do not contain sleeping accommodation, are located at least 1 metre from any boundary and are constructed of substantially non-combustible materials. For example, timber doors and gutter fascia boards are acceptable, as are flat roofs with mineral chippings on felt covering or pitched roofs with concrete or clay tiles.
  • Greenhouses not used for retailing, packing or exhibiting.
  • Porches built at ground level with a floor area less than 3m², which retain the existing house door.
  • Temporary buildings erected for fewer than 28 days. This is provided glazing and any fixed electrical installations comply with the applicable requirements of the relevant building regulations (Part N and P).

Please note: For most domestic extensions, if a building is exempt from building regulations approval, you may still need to comply with Part P of the building regulations, which covers electrical safety.