Do You Need Planning Permission for an Extension in Solihull?

Not every extension needs a full planning application. Many fall under permitted development rights, which let you carry out certain work without applying — but the rules have conditions, and it's worth understanding them before you start.

As a general guide, single-storey rear extensions can often be built under permitted development up to 3 metres from the original rear wall for an attached house (semi or terrace), or up to 4 metres for a detached house — provided they meet the conditions on height, don't cover more than half the garden, use materials in keeping with the existing house, and don't extend forward of the front elevation.

Under the Larger Home Extension scheme (a prior-approval process), you may be able to go further — up to 6 metres for an attached house or 8 metres for a detached one — by notifying the council, who consult your neighbours before deciding.

You'll normally need full planning permission if the extension exceeds those limits, covers more than half the garden, sits higher than the existing roof, or faces a highway at the front. Extra restrictions apply to listed buildings and conservation areas, and some streets have an Article 4 direction that removes permitted development rights altogether.

One thing that catches people out: even when you don't need planning permission, your extension almost always still needs Building Regulations approval — that covers structure, insulation, drainage and safety, and is separate from planning.

Because the rules depend on your specific property and can change, always confirm your situation with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's planning department (or the relevant local authority) before committing. As part of any project we take on, we'll advise honestly on whether you're likely to need an application and handle building-control sign-off for you. Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.