Home/Check Planning Permission in London (60-second Feasibility Check)
Tool

Check Planning Permission in London (60-second Feasibility Check)

Check whether your London 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 London?” The real question is: do I need it for this exact property, in this exact borough, for this exact design? CanUBuild is built around that address-level reality.

When it may be permitted development

These are the common features that keep a project on the simpler route.

Your property retains normal PD rights and the project stays within the PD envelope for its type.
The proposal avoids sensitive design triggers (especially visible, front-facing changes).
Constraints and past planning conditions do not remove or restrict your PD rights for the proposed works.

When planning permission is more likely

These are the usual triggers that push a scheme beyond straightforward PD rights.

The project exceeds PD limits, is two-storey where that is sensitive, or creates stronger neighbour impacts.
The property is constrained (listed, conservation area, Article 4) or has PD rights removed by a planning condition.
The property is a flat/maisonette where PD rights are often limited and planning permission is commonly required.
What CanUBuild checks

Faster answers before you speak to an architect or builder

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.

FAQ

Questions people ask before starting a project

Is this a substitute for professional planning advice?

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.

Do I need an address to use the checker?

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.

What projects does it cover?

Common home projects including extensions, loft conversions, garden rooms, garage conversions, basements, and selected external works such as dropped kerbs and window changes.

How do I start?

Go to the search page, find your property, then select the project type and enter a few key details to run the check.

Next step

Check your property before paying for drawings

Search for the address, choose your project type, and get a planning feasibility answer based on permitted development rules, constraints, and local precedent data.