Check whether your home project is likely to need planning permission or may be permitted development. Uses address-level constraints and nearby precedent decisions to guide your next step.
Most planning content answers the wrong question: “Do I need planning permission in England?” The real question is: do I need it for this exact property, in this exact local authority, for this exact design? CanUBuild is built around that address-level reality.
These are the common features that keep a project on the simpler route.
These are the usual triggers that push a scheme beyond straightforward PD rights.
The tool is designed to answer the first question most homeowners have: is this worth pursuing, and what is most likely to block it?
Address-level constraints and designations that are commonly missed in generic guides.
Project details that actually affect PD and approval likelihood (dimensions, storeys, roof visibility).
Nearby precedent approvals and refusals to guide a more policy-compliant direction early.
No. It is a fast feasibility check. It helps you understand likely pathways and risks, but you should always verify with the council and consult a qualified professional for formal advice.
Yes. Constraints and PD restrictions are often address-specific. The checker is designed to work from a resolved address so it can evaluate the correct local planning context.
Common home projects including extensions, loft conversions, garden rooms, garage conversions, basements, and selected external works such as dropped kerbs and window changes.
Go to the search page, find your property, then select the project type and enter a few key details to run the check.
Search for the address, choose your project type, and get a planning feasibility answer based on permitted development rules, constraints, and local precedent data.