Guide
Article 4 Directions and home extensions
An Article 4 Direction removes some or all Permitted Development rights in a specific area. If one applies to your home, works that would normally be PD may need full planning permission.
Why Article 4 Directions exist
Councils use them to protect the character of conservation areas, historic streetscapes or specific architectural features (windows, doors, render, roof finishes). They can also be applied to whole neighbourhoods.
How to check
Search your local council's planning website for “Article 4 Direction” and your street, or ask the council's planning duty desk. Defra's MAGIC map shows some designated land but not usually Article 4 boundaries.
What it changes
- PD rights for the works listed in the Direction are removed
- You may need full planning permission for works that would otherwise be PD
- It does not affect whether you need Building Regulations
Conservative routing
If you answer “not sure” in our check, we route conservatively and may escalate to Professional Advice. Run the free planning check to see your route.