This guide explains planning permission rules affecting side extension developments in Exeter.
Most householder development follows national permitted development rules unless local restrictions apply.
Development must comply with national permitted development height limits.
: You do not need planning permission to carry out internal alterations to buildings, however if the building is listed you are likely to require listed building consent. If you wish to extend or make external alterations to listed buildings you will require planning permission (unless the proposed development is classed as permitted development under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended)) and listed building consent, and a dual application will be necessary. You can
Development near boundaries must follow national permitted development rules.
Roof alterations must comply with national permitted development rules.
Materials should be similar in appearance to the existing house.
Additional planning restrictions may apply in conservation areas.
: You do not need planning permission to carry out internal alterations to buildings, however if the building is listed you are likely to require listed building consent. If you wish to extend or make external alterations to listed buildings you will require planning permission (unless the proposed development is classed as permitted development under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended)) and listed building consent, and a dual application will be necessary. You can
Last verified 2026-01
UK permitted development legislation allows many side extension projects without planning permission provided certain limits are followed.
However local planning authorities such as those covering Exeter may impose additional planning controls through conservation area policies or Article 4 directions.
Many side extension projects in Exeter may fall under permitted development rights if they remain within national planning limits.
Development must comply with national permitted development height limits.
Development near boundaries must follow national permitted development rules.
Yes. Additional planning restrictions may apply in conservation areas or where Article 4 directions remove permitted development rights.
Planning applications for side extension projects in Exeter are handled by the local planning authority covering Exeter, Devon.
For official planning advice consult the council planning portal for your area or visit the UK Planning Portal.
This guide summarises planning rules affecting side extension developments in Exeter.
Planning regulations may change and additional local planning policies may apply. Always confirm planning requirements with your local planning authority before starting development.
Last updated March 2026