This is general guidance based on standard permitted development rights in England. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties with Article 4 directions. Always confirm with your local planning authority before starting work.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Chimney Removal in Tonbridge and Malling?
Removing a chimney breast internally, reducing the chimney stack externally, or removing the chimney entirely. Internal removal is generally PD, but external changes to the roofline may need planning permission.
Planning in Tonbridge and Malling
94%
of planning applications granted
85%
decided within the statutory or agreed time
51%
of householder applications decided within 8 weeks
In the year to December 2025, Tonbridge and Malling decided 891 planning applications. 546 of these were householder projects such as extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, of which 95% were granted.
Planning statistics: MHCLG planning application statistics, the year to December 2025. Conservation area and Article 4 data: planning.data.gov.uk, © Historic England / Crown copyright. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Important: Additional Restrictions May Apply in Tonbridge and Malling
Tonbridge and Malling has 60 conservation areas. These include Addington, Aldon, Offham, Aylesford, Birling, Birling Place, Bradbourne, East Malling. If your property is in a conservation area, some or all permitted development rights may be restricted. For example, you may need planning permission for changes that would normally be permitted, including alterations to the roof, cladding, or extensions visible from a public highway.
Check with Tonbridge and Malling planning department before starting work to confirm whether your property is affected by any special designations.
Permitted Development Rules for a Chimney Removal
Generally permitted. Internal chimney breast removal is an internal alteration that does not need planning permission. Removing the external chimney stack above the roofline may be PD provided it does not significantly change the roof's appearance. In conservation areas or for listed buildings, additional consents apply.
Conditions
- 1Internal removal of a chimney breast does not require planning permission
- 2Reducing or removing the external stack may be PD if the roof is made good
- 3Must ensure structural integrity of the remaining building (party wall, load-bearing considerations)
- 4In terraced or semi-detached houses, chimney stacks shared with neighbours may have party wall implications
Size and Dimension Limits
- No specific dimensions; the work is removal rather than addition
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- Listed building consent is required for chimney removal on listed buildings
- In conservation areas, removal of a chimney that contributes to the character of the area may need PP
- Party Wall Act 1996 applies if the chimney is shared with an adjoining property
- Must retain any fire-stopping and structural support needed by the remaining building
What About Building Regulations?
Building regulations approval is likely required
Building Regulations approval is required covering structural support for remaining floors and walls (gallows brackets or steel supports), fire stopping where the chimney passes through floors and the roof, and ensuring the remaining structure meets fire safety standards.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. Even if your project is permitted development, you may still need building regulations approval. Contact Tonbridge and Malling building control or use an approved inspector.
How to Apply in Tonbridge and Malling
If you need planning permission for your chimney removal, you can apply through Tonbridge and Malling's planning department or via the national Planning Portal.
If your project is permitted development and you want written confirmation, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from Tonbridge and Malling. This provides proof that your project does not need planning permission, which can be helpful when selling your property.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Low enforcement risk for internal removal with proper structural support. Removing an external chimney in a conservation area without consent may attract enforcement. Structural failure from inadequate support is a building safety issue that can lead to prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a chimney removal in Tonbridge and Malling?
Does a chimney removal in Tonbridge and Malling need building regulations?
How do I apply for planning permission in Tonbridge and Malling?
How long does planning permission take in Tonbridge and Malling?
What percentage of planning applications does Tonbridge and Malling approve?
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