Do I Need Planning Permission for My Balcony?

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Owning a balcony is a dream for many homeowners, offering additional outdoor space, abundant light, and breathtaking views. At Balconette, we specialize in crafting exquisite glass balustrades to accompany your pre-existing balcony configuration. If you're considering our sleek Glass Balustrades but don't have a balcony yet, understanding planning permission is crucial. In this guide, we'll walk you through all you need to know about balcony planning permission, ensuring that your dream balcony and balustrade become a reality.

Breath-taking views from a terraced balcony

Do I Need Planning Permission?

Balconies are considered raised platforms, and constructing something new, making significant changes to your building, or altering its use generally requires planning permission. This also includes adding a balcony to a flat roof. However, Juliet Balconies have different rules, and in most cases, planning permission is not required. Nevertheless, it's advisable to consult your Local Planning Authority even for Juliet Balconies, as non-compliance may lead to rejection or undoing of the project.

Things to Consider Before Applying for Planning Permission

Before seeking planning permission, certain factors must be considered to increase the chances of approval:

1. Neighbours

Ensure the balcony design respects your neighbours’ privacy to avoid potential concerns. Discuss your plans with them to address any concerns and find a balcony location that doesn't compromise their privacy.

Beautiful Balustrade balcony that doesn’t overlook any neighbours

 

 

2. Loss of Light

Balcony floors may cast shadows affecting your property or your neighbours'; significant loss of light may lead to disapproval. The size and structure of your balcony can affect the amount of light that enters your home and your neighbours’ properties..

3. Matching the Property Aesthetics

Ensure your balcony's theme and style match your property and its surroundings to avoid hiccups during the application.

Terraced Aerofoil Balustrade blends in perfectly with the property

 

 

4. Preventing a Fall

Follow UK building regulations and ensure that your balcony design adheres to safety standards with exterior balustrade railings exceeding 1100mm in height and gaps narrower than 100mm diameter.

5. First Balcony in the Area

Being the first to add a balcony in the area may present challenges, as it might be perceived as a superfluous feature.

6. Listed Property

There are entirely different rules when it comes to listed properties; please check with your Local Planning Authority on what can and cannot be done.

Please note that Scottish planning legislation differs from that of England and Wales. For more guidance on balcony planning permission, you can read the detailed advice provided on GOV UK's website. Additionally, your Local Planning Authority can also provide you with further guidance specific to your area and project.

 

Who to Submit Planning Permission To?

Once you've carefully considered all aspects and have solid plans, submit your application to your Local Planning Office along with the required fee ranges between £206 for a single dwelling extension (www.gov.uk). The validation process can take days or weeks depending on information completeness.

After passing the validation stage, your application moves into the eight-week window it usually takes to decide whether your application has been granted or refused. During this timeframe, your neighbours will be contacted and given 21 days to raise any concerns regarding your application.

Communicate with your Local Planning Permission to foster a smooth planning permission process

 

 

The size of your project can significantly extend the duration of the process. If you have concerns about the potential refusal of your application, it is advisable to seek pre-application advice. This step can save you valuable time and money in the long run, considering that redesigning and resubmitting applications can be time-consuming and financially burdensome.

In general, unless stated otherwise, you have a three-year timeframe from the date of your application to commence the construction of your desired balcony.

It's important to note that if you reside in a conservation area, obtaining conservation area consent is necessary in addition to planning permission. For specific guidance, please consult your Local Planning Authority.

Double balustrade balconies situated at the front of the house

 

What If My Planning Application Is Refused?

A refusal doesn't spell the end; you have options to progress your application:

1. Amend and Resubmit

Review the reasons for rejection, amend your plans, and resubmit based on Local Planning Authority recommendations.

2. Hire Help

Enlist an architect or planning consultant to improve your chances of approval.

3. Appeal

You can appeal the decision to the Planning Inspectorate but be prepared for potential expenses.

 

What If I Already Have a Balcony? Can I Extend It or Replace It?

Extending a balcony requires planning permission. If an existing balcony becomes unsafe, it's best to replace it, but any significant changes should be checked with the Local Planning Authority.

Over time, balcony structures can become unstable, worn, and unsafe. In such situations, it is advisable to construct a replacement. However, even when replacing a pre-existing structure, it is necessary to consult your Local Planning Authority to determine if any changes you intend to make require permission. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to check! To find out who your local council is, you can click here.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Juliet Balcony?

In most cases, Juliet Balconies don't need planning permission as they don't extend forward, acting as safety features for French doors or large window openings.

Elegant Juliet Balcony hidden amongst the blossoms

 

However, there are exceptions:

  • If the Juliet balcony has a floor, even a small one, it is classified as a raised platform and may require planning permission.
  • Listed properties or those located in conservation areas may necessitate planning approval..
  • Uncommon installations of Juliet balconies may increase the likelihood of requiring permission, with alternative placement suggestions from the council.

 

How Much Value Does a Balcony Add to a House?

Even though it isn't an exact science and there are no guarantees, a well-styled and well-planned balcony should prove to be a worthwhile investment over time, making the property more desirable for potential buyers. Research conducted by London estate agents Marsh & Parsons reveals that a balcony could potentially increase the property's value by up to 12%. This value is expected to rise further in highly sought-after areas, particularly in the aftermath of lockdown where people are focusing on maximizing their outdoor spaces.

According to the Marsh & Parsons report, just under a third of flats that are listed on the market have a balcony or roof terrace, and these properties tend to attract the most interest from potential buyers.

However, it's important to note that the financial benefit is only one aspect of the story. We believe that the primary reason for adding a balcony to your property is for your own enjoyment.

Golden hour shines down on Aerofoil Balustrade balcony  

 

Contact Us

A balcony can be a valuable addition to your property, offering enjoyment and increased desirability. Before proceeding, consult with experts and your Local Planning Authority to ensure compliance with planning permission requirements. At Balconette, we specialize in bespoke Juliet Balconies and Glass Balustrade Balconies, providing high-quality designs that enhance your home. Contact our experienced team to transform your balcony dream into reality.

 



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