If you’re considering a bespoke orangery, you may have concerns about obtaining planning permission. Worry not! It’s often much easier than you might think, and our expert team is ready to support you throughout the entire process.
What is orangery planning permission?
Planning permission is the approval from your local planning authority (LPA) that authorises you to build something new, make a major change to your building (such as an extension), or change the use of your building. Planning permission is designed to ensure that any development projects adhere to certain standards, regulations, and guidelines in a way that balances the interests of property owners, the community, and the environment.
For orangery planning permission, your LPA may look at factors such as any landscaping needs, what the new structure will be used for, and the external appearance of the building.
Do you have to have planning permission for an orangery?
An orangery is considered a single-storey extension for planning permission purposes and assuming that the structure is designed and built within permitted development rights, you won’t need planning permission. However, if your property is listed, or located in a Conservation Area, Area of National Beauty or National Park, permitted development rights do not apply, and you will need to seek planning permission.
Under permitted development rights, an orangery sits in Class A, defined as the enlargement, improvement or alterations to a house such as rear or side extensions as well as general alterations such as new windows and doors.
There are four criteria that must be adhered to for Class A structures:
- The orangery is no higher than 4 metres high, or 3 metres high if within 2 metres of a boundary
- The orangery doesn’t cover more than half of the garden
- The highest point of the orangery is not higher than the eaves of the original property
- Side extensions do not extend further than half the width of the house
If your orangery design does not exceed the above-mentioned limits, you will not require planning permission.
If you do require planning permission but are worried about being denied, LPAs offer a pre-planning advice service. By providing the LPA with information about your construction plans, they can provide informal advice as to whether your planning application will likely be approved, and if it’s likely to be refused they will provide reasons and potential solutions. You now have time to act on any suggested changes, giving you the best chance of being granted planning permission when submitting the proper application.
Your design team will be able to advise you on all aspects of the planning process. If there is any doubt that your design plans will fall within permitted development rights, you will be urged to seek planning permission. Ignoring the need for orangery planning permission can be costly, as you may be ordered to rebuild, or even entirely demolish the extension.
Does an orangery need building regulations?
The Building Regulations (2010) cover the construction and extension of buildings. The regulations are set by the government, covering various aspects of a structure, from structural integrity and fire protection to energy performance and electrical and gas safety, among many others. Therefore, your orangery will be required to meet building regulations too.
Before proceeding with any building works, confirm whether your manufacturer, builder, project manager or any other key entity involved in the build, is part of the competent person scheme, as this means they can certify the building regulations on your behalf. Always confirm this ahead of time, as ultimately, you as the property owner will be liable if building regulations are not met.
Adding a bespoke orangery to your home is an exciting time, and we aim to make the process as seamless as possible for you from start to finish. In the uncommon instance that orangery planning permission is required, our expert team will support you throughout the process.
If you have any questions about our process or are ready to begin your bespoke orangery journey, contact us today.
Interested in learning about conservatory planning permission? Check out our guide here.