Single Storey Rear Extension 5 Metres Approved by Barnet Council

Single Storey Rear Extension Planning Rules in Barnet

Single storey rear extensions are one of the most popular forms of residential development in London. Many homeowners extend their properties in order to create larger kitchens, dining areas or family spaces.

Under national permitted development legislation, homeowners can build certain types of extensions without needing full planning permission.

Standard permitted development rules allow rear extensions to extend up to:

• 3 metres beyond the original rear wall for terraced and semi detached houses
• 4 metres beyond the original rear wall for detached houses

However, the government introduced the Larger Home Extension Scheme which allows homeowners to extend further, subject to a prior approval process.

Under this scheme, rear extensions can extend up to:

• 6 metres for terraced or semi detached houses
• 8 metres for detached houses

This case study involved a 5 metre rear extension, which falls within the limits of the larger home extension scheme and therefore required a prior approval application to Barnet Council.

What Is Prior Approval for a Larger Rear Extension?

Prior approval is a simplified planning process used for certain types of development that are permitted in principle under national planning legislation.

Rather than submitting a full planning application, homeowners must notify the local planning authority of the proposed extension and provide architectural drawings and supporting information.

Once the application is submitted, the council carries out a Neighbour Consultation Scheme where adjoining properties are notified of the proposal.

If neighbours raise no objections, or if the council considers that the extension would not cause unacceptable impact, prior approval is granted.

Local authorities usually determine prior approval applications within 42 days.

This streamlined process allows homeowners to extend their properties beyond standard permitted development limits while avoiding the need for a full planning application.

Planning Considerations for Larger Rear Extensions

Although larger rear extensions may be permitted under national legislation, councils still consider certain factors when determining whether prior approval should be granted.

Impact on Neighbouring Amenity

The most important consideration is the potential impact on neighbouring properties. Planning officers will assess whether the extension could result in loss of light, overshadowing or an overbearing impact on neighbouring homes.

Height and Scale

Extensions built under the larger home extension scheme must remain single storey and typically cannot exceed 4 metres in height.

Materials and Design

Materials used for the extension should generally be similar in appearance to the existing house to ensure that the extension integrates with the building.

Garden Coverage

Permitted development legislation also limits how much of the garden can be covered by extensions and other outbuildings. In most cases, development must not cover more than 50 percent of the land surrounding the original house.

By ensuring that the proposal complies with these limitations, homeowners can extend their properties without needing full planning permission.

Benefits of a 5 Metre Rear Extension

A rear extension of around 5 metres in depth can significantly improve the functionality of a home.

Many homeowners use this additional space to create open plan kitchen dining areas or family rooms which provide a stronger connection between indoor living space and the garden.

Rear extensions of this size are particularly popular in London where many houses have relatively compact ground floor layouts.

Extending the property can also increase the overall value of the home while improving everyday living conditions.

The Value of Professional Planning Advice

Although permitted development rights provide opportunities for larger extensions, it is still important to ensure that the proposal complies fully with the relevant legislation.

Prior approval applications require careful preparation including accurate drawings and supporting information.

Planning consultants can assist by reviewing the proposal, confirming that the extension falls within permitted development limits and preparing the documentation required for submission.

Professional planning advice can also help address potential concerns relating to neighbouring amenity which may otherwise result in the application being refused.

With the correct planning strategy, many homeowners are able to build larger rear extensions without the need for a full planning application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a 5 metre rear extension without planning permission?

In many cases a 5 metre rear extension can be built under the Larger Home Extension Prior Approval Scheme rather than a full planning application.

What is prior approval for a rear extension?

Prior approval is a simplified planning process used for certain types of permitted development. The council consults neighbouring properties before granting approval.

How long does prior approval take to get decided?

Most prior approval applications are determined within 42 days.

Need Planning Permission for a Rear Extension?

If you are considering a single storey rear extension or a larger home extension under prior approval, obtaining the right planning advice at an early stage can make the process significantly smoother.

At 4D Planning, we regularly assist homeowners across London and the surrounding areas with planning applications for house extensions, including larger rear extensions submitted under the prior approval scheme. Our team can review your property, confirm whether your proposal qualifies under permitted development legislation, and prepare the architectural drawings and documentation required for submission to the council.

If you are thinking about extending your home and would like to understand your options, we would be happy to help.

Contact 4D Planning today to arrange a free initial planning appraisal and discuss how we can assist with your rear extension project.