Do I Need Planning Permission.co.uk
Making the most of your Home

Sorry to bother you. We are looking at getting decking where we currently have 70cm high concrete steps, as they are dangerous for our 1 year old. We’ve seen that decking over 30cm high needs planning permission but this would only just be above the existing steps, though we would then want to stretch out for maybe up to 3-4 metres to the side. Our neighbour does not seem concerned and the steps are next to her side already, so the extra heightened area would be away from her. Everyone we’ve had to quote for the work is laughing at the idea of planning permission and the council want £85 to give an opinion prior to any planning application. Does anyone know whether the decking measurement for the 30cm rule would start at the top of the existing steps or from the ground? Thanks!

Pics, in case it helps:

https://ibb.co/g90YSz1

https://ibb.co/wW7QC9R

If your property was on a slope, you would have been able to take the highest ‘natural’ ground level next to the structure.

Having looked at the photos and as the decking would exceed 300mm, it would normally require Planning approval. Whether you do or don’t is up to you but bear in mind it ‘could’ open you up to a few issues down the line if or when you come to sell.

Is it really worth the possible aggravation for the sake of an application form, some scaled drawings and an application fee of £206.00?

Thanks, I wasn’t sure how much goes into the applications but I’ll get looking. Massively appreciate your time, thank you!