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 Hard Standing?
Creating a hard surface area on your property for parking, storage, or general use. The rules are the same as for driveway paving: permeable surfaces are PD, while non-permeable surfaces over 5 square metres need careful consideration.
The General Position
Whether you need planning permission depends on the specific details of your project, your property type, and your location. Check the conditions below carefully.
Whether hard standing is PD depends on the surface type and location. Permeable surfaces (gravel, porous paving, permeable block paving) are PD under Part 1, Class F. Non-permeable surfaces over 5 square metres require planning permission unless they drain to a permeable area within the property boundary. Rear garden hard standing is generally PD.
Conditions and Requirements
- 1Permeable surfaces are PD regardless of size
- 2Rear garden hard standing is generally PD
- 3Front garden: non-permeable surfaces over 5 square metres require PP unless draining to a permeable area
- 4Must not significantly raise the ground level (over 300mm becomes a raised platform)
Size and Dimension Limits
- No size limit for permeable surfaces
- Non-permeable front surfaces: 5 square metres maximum without drainage provision
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- Front garden non-permeable surfaces over 5 square metres without proper drainage need PP
- In designated areas, additional restrictions may apply
- Consider the impact on drainage and flooding for neighbouring properties
- A dropped kerb is a separate application if vehicular access is needed
What About Building Regulations?
Building Regulations do not apply to hard standing. Adequate drainage should be provided to prevent surface water flooding. This is enforced through the planning system and environmental regulations rather than Building Regulations.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. You may need both, one, or neither depending on your project. Building regulations cover the safety and quality of building work, including structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
How to Apply for Planning Permission
Check if you need permission
Review the permitted development rules above. If in doubt, contact your council or apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.
Prepare your application
You will need scaled drawings, a site plan, and a completed application form. An architect or planning consultant can help with this.
Submit to your local council
Applications can be submitted online via the Planning Portal or directly to your council. Select your council below for a direct link.
Wait for a decision
8 weeks for householder planning applications if PP is needed..
Application cost: £258.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Low to moderate risk depending on the surface type, size, and location. Non-permeable front garden surfaces are the main enforcement concern. The most common practical consequence is an issue raised during property sales rather than proactive council enforcement.
Find a Builder for Your Hard Standing
Browse local builders on Tradesfolk. Read reviews, compare quotes, and hire with confidence. 100% free for homeowners.
Select Your Council
Choose your local council for guidance specific to your area, including links to apply and whether your council has conservation areas or Article 4 directions that could affect your project.
London
South East
South West
East of England
East Midlands
West Midlands
North East
North West
Yorkshire and the Humber
CA = has conservation areas. A4 = has Article 4 directions. These may restrict your permitted development rights.