Many homeowners are surprised to discover that planning permission can be required for a new driveway. The rules are more nuanced than most people expect. Here's a clear summary of the current position.
The Basic Rule
Under permitted development rights, you can pave a front garden driveway without planning permission if:
For driveways over 5m², an impermeable surface requires planning permission. A permeable surface does not.
Why This Matters for Your Driveway Choice
This rule is the reason resin bound driveways have become so popular — they're fully permeable, which means they fall within permitted development regardless of size.
- Impermeable surfaces that may trigger the requirement:
- Solid concrete
- Block paving (unless laid on a permeable sub-base)
- Resin bonded (scatter) — NOT to be confused with resin bound
- Tarmac
- Permeable surfaces that don't trigger the requirement:
- Resin bound surfacing ✓
- Gravel (with a stabilising grid)
- Permeable block paving
- Grass paving
Exceptions to Permitted Development
Planning permission is always required (regardless of surface type) in the following situations:
Yorkshire Local Planning Authorities
- If you're unsure whether planning permission applies to your project, contact your local planning authority:
- West Yorkshire: Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Wakefield councils
- North Yorkshire: North Yorkshire Council
- Greater Manchester (Altrincham, Sale etc.): Trafford Borough Council
We're happy to advise on your specific situation and help you navigate the process if planning permission is required.