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At the end of your home improvement project, you are sure to be adding the finishing touches to the new area of your home. This may involve adding a kitchen to a new extension or replacing a bathroom suite, or perhaps sprucing up your garden by putting up a new fence.

In this section you can learn about smaller scale improvements in and around the home and where you may need to observe planning rules, such as tree preservation orders for pruning trees, or adhering to building regulations, for example when installing outside lighting.

    Decorating

    Find out if planning rules and building control relates to the cosmetic decorating of your home.

      Trees and hedges

      Tree preservation orders may prevent you from pruning or felling a tree. Find out more here.

        Facias and soffits

        Find out if planning and building rules effect the replacement and maintenance of fascia and soffit boards.

          Fences, gates and garden walls

          Details if the planning requirements for erecting a wall, fence or gate on your property.

            Kitchens and bathrooms

            Read our guidance on how planning and building rules apply to drainage or electrical works that form part of a refit.

              Decking and raised platforms

              Guidance on the permitted development conditions for installing decking and raised platforms in your garden.

                External lighting

                Learn about what electrical requirements need to be met when installing external lighting at your property.

                  Ornamental gateposts

                  If you are thinking of adding some gate ornaments they may be subject to some planning conditions, read our guidance.

                    The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.

                    The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.