Many of our customers ask if you need planning permission for a tarmac driveway so we thought we would provide some information in regards to the legislation and clauses surrounding a tarmac driveway.
There are no planning restrictions if you tarmac over an area that does not form part of the front garden however driveways built over other areas of the property do require planning permission. This is also the case if you wish to tarmac over a bank or over a terrace.
Some areas do not require planning permission as a tarmac driveway is the most environmentally friendly option. This is because these surfaces allow the water to drain though with no need for additional drainage. Water is able to be drained naturally to a border, lawn or nearby drain.
Simply speaking, if a driveway is under 5 metre squared it is not subject to planning permission if the driveway drains onto a lawn or to a drainage system or flower border. You may need to obtain planning permission if the tarmac driveway is over 5 metres squared or you need drainage.
The best thing to do if you want to tarmac your driveway and want to find out if you need planning permission to tarmac your driveway is to contact your local authority. If your property is in a national park area, world heritage site, in an area of outstanding natural beauty or is a listed building you will definitely require planning permission for a tarmac driveway.
Another reason that you will need planning permission for a tarmac driveway is if you are looking to create a new access point to your garden or across a footpath. You must ensure the driveway does not have surface water running into roads or paths. If the driveway is connected to the main elevation of the house, you may also need to obtain planning permission for your tarmac driveway, It is always best to check and you can then factor any additional costs to your driveway project.
Another reason you may need planning permission for a tarmac driveway is if you need to lower the kerb outside your house.
The best advice we can give is to always check with your local planning authority. If you would like to discuss your requirements for a tarmac driveway then contact us today for more information and to speak to our friendly team.