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Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?
Planning permission may NOT be required (permitted development) if your loft conversion meets the following criteria.
- No roof alterations (excluding roof windows) are made to any side of the building facing the road or front.
- No roof alterations (excluding roof windows) are made to a roof within 10 metres of the boundary facing the roof.
- The height of the conversion does NOT change the existing height of the roof.
- Any dormers do NOT exceed half the width of the existing roof.
- Any part of the conversion is within 0.3 metres of the edge of the roof.
- Is NOT in a conservation area.
- Is NOT a listed building.
You should always check with you local planning department or architectural service provider.
Although planning permission may not be required it is recommended you should obtain a “Certificate of Lawfulness” which is confirmation from your planning department that your loft conversion does not require planning permission. You may require this should you come to sell your home.
Visit Do I Need Permissions certificate of lawfulness page for more information.
What is required for a loft conversion planning application?
A planning application for loft conversion should consist of the following information,
- OS based location plan
- Block plan
- Existing floor plans and elevations
- Proposed floor plans and elevations
- Supplementary information as required for your specific project.
Your local architectural service provider will be able to individually asses your specific requirements. Always use a professional.
Take a look at Do I Need Permissions planning permission Scotland guide for information on preparing and lodging a planning application.
How much does planning permission cost?
Planning permission (where required) for a loft conversion costs £192 (from 6th April 2013), this fee is payable to your local council. You may be asked to pay additional fees for advertising your planning application, this happens when the planning department cannot find contact details for any neighbours that are required to be notified. This fee varies.
View planning permission fees for other projects on Do I Need Permissions planning fees Scotland page.
The fee for architectural drawings varies depending on your individual requirements.
How long does planning permission take?
Planning permission can take between 6-8 weeks for a decision. Your application can be refused if found to be unsuitable. A decision may take longer if your proposals are complex or further information is required.
Most council’s allow you to track the progress of your planning application on-line. You can also see if anyone has commented on your proposals. Visit Do I Need Permissions view planning applications in my area page.
If your planning application is refused you may have the right to appeal if you feel the reasons for refusal are not relevant or supported.
How long does planning permission last?
Planning permission is valid for 3 years from the date of approval, works should be started within this time period.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in Scotland?
Do I need building warrant for a loft conversion in Scotland?
