Local government in Surrey is changing
From April 2027, the existing county council and 11 district and borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils. Learn more about Future Surrey
Guidance on when planning permission is required for extending or altering your home.
The Council does not provide informal advice as to whether planning permission is required. For guidance on common projects please use the Planning Portal Interactive House Guides (external link) instead. You can also read the permitted development rights for householders: technical guide on the GOV.UK website (external link).
After you have used these guides, if you consider that your proposal complies with permitted development rights then before commencing any works it is strongly advisable that you receive formal confirmation by applying for a Lawful Development Certificate. If, however, you consider that your proposal requires planning permission then you will need to submit a householder planning application.
To apply please go to the Planning Portal (external link). The Council’s Local Validation List explains the national and local application requirements.
If the property is on a classified road (an A, B or C road), then planning permission will be required.
If the property is on a non-classified D road, then it is unlikely that planning permission will be required. However, for the Council to verify this please apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.
To apply please go to the Planning Portal (external link). In addition to the application form and fee we require the following in support of your application:
Once you have obtained planning permission or a lawful development certificate you will need to obtain a site licence from Surrey County Council. You can find out more on the vehicle crossovers or dropped kerbs webapge on the Surrey County Council website (external link). A licence will only be permitted if your proposal meets County’s space and safety criteria as detailed on their website.