In Scotland, some developments are classed as permitted development and don’t require formal planning permission, while other types of developments do.
Permitted development (planning permission usually not needed):
- Small extensions to a home (subject to size/height limits)
- Certain outbuildings (sheds, garages, greenhouses) within size and placement limits
- Decking, fences, and walls below certain heights
- Internal alterations (that don’t affect the external appearance or structure)
Planning permission is usually needed for:
- Larger extensions, or ones that take up too much garden space
- Flats/maisonettes (they have fewer permitted development rights than houses)
- Building in conservation areas or for listed buildings (stricter rules apply)
- Change of use (e.g. turning a shop into a café)
- Building something that could impact neighbours’ privacy, light, or access
Sparran can offer advice to help with navigating the planning requirements - read more here.