Free Interactive Planning Tools
Do I Need Planning Permission? Free Planning Permission Checker (UK)
Answer a few quick questions about your extension, loft conversion, change of use, new build or outbuilding and get an instant, plain-English verdict — backed by the General Permitted Development Order 2015, the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the National Planning Policy Framework 2023. Then check your exact site for planning constraints like flood risk, Green Belt and listed buildings on Maplify's free map.
How this planning permission checker works
Answer a few questions
Tell us about your property and proposed works.
Get an instant verdict
See whether you need full permission, prior approval, or likely have permitted development rights.
See the legal basis
Every result links back to the exact GPDO, TCPA or NPPF provision it relies on.
Check your site on the map
Confirm designations like Green Belt, flood risk or conservation areas for your specific address.
Planning Policy, Legislation & Regulations Referenced
Every result in this planning permission checker is based on current English planning law and national policy. Rules can vary by Local Planning Authority and by individual site — always confirm with your council before starting work.
Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (TCPA 1990)
The primary UK legislation setting out when planning permission is required and how the planning system operates.
General Permitted Development Order 2015 (GPDO)
Grants automatic "permitted development" rights for many extensions, outbuildings, and changes of use, without a full planning application.
Use Classes Order 1987 (as amended 2020/2021)
Groups land and building uses into classes (e.g. Class E, C3, C4) and determines when a change of use needs permission.
National Planning Policy Framework 2023 (NPPF)
Sets out the Government's planning policies for England and how they should be applied, including flood risk, Green Belt and heritage.
Development Management Procedure Order 2015 (DMPO)
Governs how planning applications are made, publicised, consulted on and decided by Local Planning Authorities.
Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990
Controls works to listed buildings and conservation areas, including Listed Building Consent requirements.
Article 4 Directions
Made by Local Planning Authorities under the GPDO to remove specific permitted development rights in defined areas.
Flood Risk Regulations 2009
Requires flood risk to be assessed and managed as part of the planning process in flood-affected areas.
Planning Permission FAQs
It depends on the size, position and type of property. Many single-storey rear extensions fall under permitted development rights in the GPDO 2015, but flats, listed buildings, and extensions in Conservation Areas usually need full planning permission. Use the checker above to get a specific answer.
Ready to check your exact site?
View flood risk, Green Belt, conservation areas and 265+ other planning constraints for free.