Do You Need Planning Permission for Extensions in Farnham?
- mal909
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
If you’re thinking about extending your home in Farnham, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:
“Do I actually need planning permission?”
The honest answer is — sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the size of the extension, where it sits on your property, and whether your home has any special planning constraints.
Understanding this early can save you time, money, and a lot of stress later in the project.
Permitted Development vs Planning Permission — What’s the Difference?
Many Farnham homeowners are surprised to learn that some extensions can be built under Permitted Development Rights (PD), meaning you don’t need full planning permission.
For full official guidance on Permitted Development rules, you can review the
Planning Portal permitted development guidance before starting your project.
Permitted development typically covers:
• Single storey rear extensions within size limits
• Some side extensions• Loft conversions (if within volume allowances)
• Internal alterations
However — this only applies if your property qualifies.
When You WILL Need Planning Permission
You’ll likely need planning permission if:
• Your extension is larger than PD size limits
• You live in a conservation area
• Your property is listed
• Previous owners have removed PD rights
• The design significantly changes the appearance of the house
• The extension is close to boundaries or affects neighbours
Parts of Farnham have conservation considerations, so this is especially important locally.
Common Farnham Planning Pitfalls
From experience working across Farnham and surrounding Surrey areas, common issues include:
1️⃣ Assuming PD automatically applies- Not all properties have PD rights.
2️⃣ Ignoring neighbour impact -Overlooking or overshadowing can trigger objections.
3️⃣ Starting drawings without feasibility checks- Early planning advice saves redesign costs later.
Do You Still Need Building Regulations If No Planning Permission Is Required?
Yes — almost always.
Building Regulations cover:
• Structural safety•
Insulation and energy efficiency
• Fire safety
• Drainage
• Ventilation
Planning permission and Building Regulations are completely separate processes.
How to De-Risk Your Extension Project
The most efficient route usually looks like:
Feasibility / budget planning
Planning strategy (PD vs Full Planning)
Design drawings
Planning submission (if required)
Technical drawings + structural calcs
Build phase
This structured approach supports accurate budgeting and cost confidence, which sits at the core of how Forsyth Construction Surrey Ltd delivers projects.
Local Tip: Farnham Planning Reality
Farnham generally supports high-quality extensions — but design quality matters.
Planning officers are more likely to support proposals that:
• Match existing materials
• Respect neighbouring privacy
• Maintain street character
• Improve energy performance
Thinking About Extending in Farnham?
If you’re unsure where your project sits, getting clarity early can save thousands later.
A quick feasibility discussion can usually confirm:
• If planning is needed
• Likely build cost range
• Structural complexity
• Timescale expectations
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