Planning permission for a porch
A porch added to an external door is usually permitted development, as long as it stays under 3m², under 3m tall and at least 2m from any boundary fronting a highway.
Porches are one of the simplest projects to keep within permitted development. Three numbers decide it: floor area, height, and distance from the road.
- Ground floor area no more than 3m² (measured externally)
- No more than 3m high
- No part within 2m of a boundary that fronts a highway
- Added to an existing external door of a house
- Porches that exceed any of the size, height or distance limits
- Flats, maisonettes and houses created by change of use or permitted development
- Listed buildings and homes in conservation areas or other designated land
- Properties where permitted development rights have been removed
Don't forget building regs
A porch is exempt from building regulations if it is under 30m², at ground level, and the existing external door between it and the house stays in place, with any glazing meeting safety-glass rules. Most porches qualify, but we confirm it.
We check your porch against the three limits and the safety-glazing rules, and prepare a design that suits the front of the house. If it needs permission we handle the application. Read our guide to a porch addition or get a price on the instant quote tool.
Frequently asked
How big can a porch be without planning permission?
Up to 3m² of ground floor area and up to 3m high, and no closer than 2m to any boundary that fronts a highway. Stay within all three and a porch on a house is normally permitted development.
Does a porch need building regulations?
Usually not. A porch under 30m² at ground level is exempt provided the original front door stays in place and any glazing near doors and low level is toughened safety glass.
Not sure where your project stands?
Checking whether you need planning permission is one of the first things we do: on the house, before any drawings. Tell us about your project and we'll confirm the route.