EXEMPT BUILDINGS

A
Small Single Storey Detached Buildings (please refer to diagram)
Buildings of this type are considered exempt provided the floor area is less than 15m² and contains no sleeping accommodation.


B
Greenhouses (please refer to diagram)
Structures of this type are considered exempt provided they are not used for retailing, packing or exhibiting.


C
Single Storey Additions (please refer to diagram)
Conservatories / porches (without permanent openings from the main dwelling), covered yards or carports (open on at least two sides) with a floor area less than 30m² are considered exempt under the Building Regulations, provided that:

In the case of a conservatory or porch it is thermally separated from the dwelling by walls, windows and doors with the same thermal value and draught stripping provisions as provided elsewhere in the dwelling and the heating system of the dwelling is not extended into the conservatory or porch. The definition of a conservatory is that it must have not less than ¾ of its roof area and not less than ½ of its external wall area made from translucent material.


D
Single Storey Detached Buildings (please refer to diagram)
Buildings of this type are considered exempt under provided floor area is less than 30m², with tiled or felted roof, and contains no sleeping accommodation and either:
  • Has brick or concrete walls, or
  • Is 1m from the boundary

Notes:
These notes refer to domestic buildings that are exempt under the Building Regulations. They are provided for guidance purposes only and are not intended to be a full or binding list of the statutory exemptions. It is advised that you submit a sketch plan with a written enquiry to obtain confirmation of any exemption from the Building Regulations.

Electrical Safety
The exemption from the requirement to submit an application under the Building Regulations for these works does not extend to electrical installations. Either the electrical works must be carried out by an electrician who is a member of a ‘Competent Person’s Scheme’ approved by the Government, or an application must be submitted under the Building Regulations for the electrical works. Please see our guidance on Electrical Safety for further details.

Planning Permission
Some types of development do not require specific. This is referred to as Permitted Development. You are advised to consult Development Control for advice on whether a Planning Application is required.



Page last updated on: 22/09/2010