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Can I Convert My Loft Without Planning Permission?
Loft conversions often fall under permitted development — but only if you meet key criteria. This guide breaks down the rules so you can plan with confidence.
Loft conversions are one of the most popular ways to gain extra space — often without extending your home’s footprint. But can you convert your loft without needing planning permission?
The short answer: often, yes — but it depends.
Most loft conversions fall under permitted development rights if you follow certain rules, including:
– Volume limits: Up to 40m³ for terraced houses, 50m³ for detached and semi-detached
– No front-facing dormers
– Materials must match the existing house
– No raising the roof height
– Dormers must be set back and below the roof ridge
When permission is still needed
– Your home is in a conservation area or is listed
– You want a balcony or terrace
– You plan to raise the roofline
– Permitted development rights have been removed (common on new-build estates)
Peace of mind before you plan
Before hiring a designer or contractor, use Planning Buddy to check whether your loft conversion falls under permitted development. In minutes, we give you a tailored PDF report showing your planning position — so you can build with confidence, not guesswork.