Do You Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension in Surrey?

The Short Answer

Many single-storey rear extensions in Surrey fall under Permitted Development (PD) rights and do not require full planning permission. However, this depends on your property type, its location, and the size of the proposed extension.

Permitted Development Rights Explained

Permitted Development rights allow homeowners to make certain changes to their property without applying for planning permission. For extensions in Surrey, the key PD limits are:

Single-storey rear extensions: Up to 3 metres from the rear wall for attached houses, or 4 metres for detached houses

Larger rear extensions: Up to 6 metres (attached) or 8 metres (detached) under the Prior Approval process through the Larger Home Extension scheme

Side extensions: Up to half the width of the original dwelling, single storey only

Height restrictions: Maximum 4 metres to the eaves, 3 metres for extensions within 2 metres of a boundary

When Planning Permission Is Required

You will typically need full planning permission if:

Your property is in a designated conservation area

You live in a listed building (Listed Building Consent is also needed)

You are building a two-storey extension

The extension exceeds PD size limits

You have already used your PD allowance with previous extensions

Your property is a flat or maisonette

Local Planning Authorities in Surrey

Each borough in Surrey has its own planning department with specific local policies:

Guildford Borough Council: — covers Guildford town and surrounding villages

Woking Borough Council: — covers Woking, Horsell, and Byfleet

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council: — covers Epsom, Ewell, and Stoneleigh

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council: — covers Reigate, Banstead, and Redhill

Elmbridge Borough Council: — covers Cobham, Esher, and Walton-on-Thames

Mole Valley District Council: — covers Dorking and Leatherhead

Waverley Borough Council: — covers Farnham, Godalming, and Cranleigh

Surrey Heath Borough Council: — covers Camberley, Frimley, and Bagshot

How Grand Innovations Helps

We manage the entire planning process on your behalf. This includes preparing architectural drawings, submitting applications, liaising with your local planning authority, and ensuring full building regulations compliance. Our experience across Surrey's planning authorities means we understand local design policies and can advise on the best approach for your specific property.

If you're considering an extension in Surrey, contact Grand Innovations for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll assess your property, confirm your Permitted Development rights, and explain the planning route that applies to your project.

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension in Surrey?