Question 1

What is a householder planning application?

Accepted Answer

A householder application is a simplified planning application specifically for works to an existing dwelling house and its garden (curtilage). It covers physical alterations and additions - extensions (single and two-storey), loft conversions, dormer windows, garages, outbuildings, porches, and changes to the external appearance of the house. It is designed to be simpler to prepare and assess than a full planning application, reflecting that most householder developments have limited impact beyond the immediate neighbours. The statutory determination period is 8 weeks (from valid receipt of the application) and fees are set nationally at a lower rate than full applications.

Question 2

When do I need a householder application instead of full planning permission?

Accepted Answer

A householder application is appropriate when your proposed works to a house require planning permission but are solely for the benefit of the existing dwelling - extensions, loft conversions, garages, and other physical alterations. A full planning application (rather than a householder application) is needed if: the property is a flat or maisonette (not a house); the works involve a material change of use (converting a garage to a self-contained flat, for example); you are creating a new dwelling through subdivision; or the works relate to a commercial, mixed-use, or other non-residential property. The distinction matters because the application form, fee, and process differ. If you are unsure which category applies, the local planning authority's pre-application advice service can confirm.

Question 3

What documents are needed for a householder application?

Accepted Answer

A householder application typically requires: the completed application form (submitted via the Planning Portal in England); the application fee (currently set nationally - check the Planning Portal fee calculator for the current amount); a location plan at 1:1250 or 1:2500 scale showing the site in its wider context with a north point; a site plan at 1:500 or 1:200 scale showing the property boundary and the proposed works in plan; existing and proposed floor plans at 1:50 or 1:100 scale; existing and proposed elevations at 1:50 or 1:100 scale (showing the works from all affected sides); and a design and access statement if required (not always needed for simple householder works). Some local planning authorities require additional documents such as a bat survey (if the works affect the roof of an older property) or a flood risk assessment (if in a flood zone).

Question 4

How long does a householder application take?

Accepted Answer

The statutory determination period for a householder application is 8 weeks from the date the application is validated (confirmed as complete and correct) by the local planning authority. In practice, validation may take 1-2 weeks after submission (if the authority requests additional information or corrected documents), so the total period from submission to decision is typically 10-12 weeks. Authorities measure their performance against the 8-week statutory target, and most straightforward householder applications are determined within this period. Complex applications, those requiring consultation with statutory bodies (Environment Agency, Historic England, Highways), or those that attract significant objections may take longer. If the authority does not determine the application within the statutory period (or an agreed extended period), the applicant can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate on the grounds of non-determination.

Householder Application

Just so you know...