Whenever you want to do work to your property, it\u2019s a good idea to check that there aren\u2019t any rules or restrictions in place before you start. This applies to exterior painting and decorating. Depending on where you live, you might find that you need to apply for permission before you paint your house or other outdoor areas.<\/p>\n
Keep reading to find out more about exterior painting and decorating and planning permission.<\/p>\n
The UK has planning laws to control the building work that people do. Local authorities enforce these rules. There are some types of building work that you have to apply and receive planning permission for before you do them. Other sorts of building work are permitted developments, which means you don\u2019t need to get permission to do them.<\/p>\n
Generally speaking, you don\u2019t need planning permission for exterior painting and decorating. You can paint the outside of most properties, outbuildings and fences without having to give notice or apply for permission. However, if your property is listed or on designated land, there are some additional rules that apply.<\/p>\n
If you own a listed building, you\u2019ll need listed building consent for any significant internal or external work you want to do. This includes exterior painting and decorating. Your local authority is unlikely to prevent you from painting your property. However, they\u2019ll probably restrict the colour and paint type you use.<\/p>\n
Sometimes listed building regulations apply to unlisted structures that are close to listed buildings. So if you own a listed building, it\u2019s a good idea to check with your local authority that any exterior painting and decorating you want to do is ok, even if it\u2019s not actually on the listed building.<\/p>\n
Designated land includes conservation areas, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, national parks and World Heritage Sites. If your property is on designated land, there are probably restrictions on what you can and can\u2019t do to it. This might include exterior painting and decorating.<\/p>\n
Different rules apply to different areas of designated land. So before you do any exterior painting and decorating work, it\u2019s a good idea to contact your local authority to find out whether there are any restrictions on this in your area. Some local authorities might ask you to apply for planning permission, while others will be happy for you to go ahead with the work.<\/p>\n