House Extension Approval: A Guide to Obtaining Planning Permission
If you’re thinking of extending your home, you’re not alone. Many homeowners choose to extend their properties rather than moving to a bigger house. However, before you start work on your house extension, you need to obtain planning permission.
In this article, we’ll take you through the process of obtaining planning permission for your house extension.
- Check if you need planning permission
The first thing you need to do is check if you need planning permission. In some cases, where there are no overlays or zone requirements, you may be able to carry out certain types of extensions without planning permission. However, if your extension falls outside of these limits, you will need to apply for planning permission.
In Victoria, you can check whether you need planning permission by visiting the Property and parcel search website, which has a handy tool that allows you to check what types of extensions are allowed without planning permission.
- Submit your planning application
If you do need planning permission, the next step is to submit your planning application. This can be done online or by post. Your application will need to include detailed plans of the proposed extension, as well as any supporting documents that may be required, such as a design and access statement.
It’s important to note that there is a fee for submitting a planning application, which varies depending on the size and nature of your extension.
- Wait for a decision
Once your planning application has been submitted, the local planning authority will review it and make a decision. The decision process can take up to eight weeks, although it can take longer for more complex applications.
During this time, the planning authority may request further information or ask for changes to be made to the proposed extension.
- Receive a decision
Once a decision has been made, you will receive a formal notice from the planning authority. There are three possible outcomes:
- Approval: Your planning application has been approved, and you can proceed with your house extension.
- Refusal: Your planning application has been refused. You may be able to appeal the decision, but this can be a lengthy and costly process.
- Conditional approval: Your planning application has been approved, but with conditions attached. You will need to meet these conditions before you can proceed with your house extension.
- Start work on your house extension
If your planning application has been approved, you can start work on your house extension. However, it’s important to ensure that you comply with any conditions attached to the approval, such as the use of certain materials or the size of the extension.
In summary, obtaining planning permission for a house extension can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, by following these steps and seeking advice from a professional if necessary, you can increase your chances of success and ensure that your house extension is completed in a legal and safe manner.
