Attach something to or alter the outside of your flat

If you own a flat, you may want to add or change something on its outside wall.

This guidance only applies if your flat is a dwelling. This means it's a flat you live in and is not mainly used for business purposes.

Permitted development

You do not always need planning permission to change the outside of your flat.

This is called 'permitted development'.

Permitted development rules for flats

Permitted development only applies to changes that do not reach out more than a metre from your flat. The changes must not make the flat larger.

These include:

replacement or new windows and doors
solar panels
satellite dishes
flues (exhaust pipes)

You cannot change the dimensions of an existing window or door.

Permitted development with special conditions

Some additions count as permitted development but have different requirements. These include:

a flue forming part of a biomass heating system
a flue forming part of a combined heat and power system
an air source heat pump
CCTV

What you cannot add under permitted development

Under permitted development, your changes cannot be:

adding a balcony, roof terrace or raised platform
adding a wind turbine
in a conservation area
within the curtilage (grounds) of a listed building

Read the Householder permitted rights guidance on gov.scot to find out more about:

making changes to a flat
what changes count as permitted development

Planning permission

If your change is not allowed under permitted development, you need planning permission.

Find out how to apply for planning permission. You can also contact your local council for further information.

Planning permission

Always check with your council to confirm if you need planning permission. Even if you meet the permitted development rules, there might be other approvals you'll need to get.

Other approvals

You may need other approvals before starting work. For example, your local council might ask for building regulation approval.

If you do not own the land, you must get the landowner’s permission (for example, if you’re a tenant or share ownership).

If your home is a listed building, you’ll also need listed building consent.

It’s your responsibility to make sure you have all the approvals you need.

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Information

Permitted development

Permitted development rules for flats

Permitted development with special conditions

What you cannot add under permitted development

Planning permission

Other approvals