Do I Need Planning Permission For An Oak Porch?

Permitted Development Order

The General Permitted Development Order came into force on 15th April 2015.

This allows certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application. Installing an oak porch comes under Permitted Development.

There are, however, certain restrictions and exclusions.

The following is a general guideline, and we recommend that you check your local authority website or contact the planning department prior to installing your oak porch.

Permitted Development Rights are subject to conditions and limitations to control impacts and protect local amenities.

Exclusions for England (which may differ in Wales) include homes (not flats, maisonettes or other buildings) in:-

• Conservation Areas
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• National Parks
• The Broads
• World Heritage Sites

Listed buildings are also exempt.

‘BASIC’ Rules For Planning Permission For An Oak Porch

The rules for oak porch planning permission are applicable to any external door to the dwelling provided:-

• The ground floor area (measured externally) would not exceed 3 square metres.

• No part would be more than 3 metres* above ground level (height needs to be measured in the same way as for a house extension).

• No part of the porch would be within 2 metres of any boundary between the dwelling house and the highway.

*When asking for a quotation for an oak porch, the overall height of the oak to the ridge will need to be less than 3 metres to allow for roofing tiles, slates, and the ridge tiles. The TOTAL height of everything can’t be above 3 metres.

Useful links:

The Planning Portal covers many different projects that require planning permission, as does the Government website:

Remember – If in any doubt as to whether you need planning permission, contact your local council.

We supply oak porches but are not responsible for checking with regards to planning permission.