Do I need planning permission for a driveway in the UK?

If you’re thinking about installing or updating a driveway, one of the questions you may ask is whether planning permission is required. The good news is that in many cases, you won’t need formal permission, but there are some important rules to be aware of. Getting it wrong could mean enforcement action from your local council, so it’s always worth checking before work begins.

Situations when you DON’T need planning permission:

Since 2008, householders in England have been able to install or replace a driveway without planning permission as long as:

The surface area is less than 5 square metres, or
The driveway is built using a permeable material such as porous asphalt, resin-bound gravel, block paving with permeable joints, or reinforced grass/gravel grids.

These solutions allow rainwater to drain naturally into the ground, helping to prevent surface water run-off that can contribute to flooding.

Situations when planning permission IS required for your driveway

Planning permission is usually required if:

The new driveway is over 5 square metres and uses a traditional non-permeable material (such as concrete or tarmac) that does not allow water to drain through.
You are directing surface water into the road or public drains, rather than into a soakaway or permeable area within your property.
Your property is a listed building or is located in a conservation area, where additional restrictions may apply.
You want to install a dropped kerb to provide vehicle access from the road- this always requires council approval.

Driveway drainage requirements

For larger driveways, drainage is one of the most important factors. If permeable surfacing isn’t an option, you’ll need to ensure that water runs off into a soakaway, rain garden, or other sustainable drainage system (SuDS) within your property boundary. This prevents excess water from overwhelming local drains.

Tips before starting your driveway project

Check local guidance- rules can vary slightly depending on where you live.
Speak to your installer- experienced surfacing contractors (like Premier Surfacing) will know the regulations and can advise on compliant materials.
Consider long-term value- permeable driveways may cost slightly more upfront but reduce maintenance issues and improve sustainability.
Apply early if needed- if permission is required, factor in the time for your council to review your application before starting work.

Planning a new driveway? How we can help

For many homeowners, building or updating a driveway won’t require planning permission, provided you use permeable materials or keep the surface under 5 square metres. However, if you’re considering non-permeable options, a dropped kerb, or live in a conservation area, permission will likely be needed. At Premier Surfacing, we’re professional surfacing specialists with over 30 years experience. We’re based in Market Drayton and work with clients throughout Shropshire, Staffordshire, and Cheshire. We can advise on the best driveway solution for your home, ensuring it looks great, performs well, and complies with all planning and drainage requirements.