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Kitchen Extension Permitted Development: Rules and Costs (2025)

Kitchen Extension Permitted Development: Rules and Costs (2025)

Planning Rules

Kitchen Extension Permitted Development: Rules and Costs (2025)

Most kitchen extensions are permitted development if they meet the Part 1, Class A size limits. Here’s what the rules allow, the roof and glazing options, and typical costs.

Quick Answer

Kitchen extensions are permitted development if they meet the Part 1, Class A size limits

A kitchen extension at the rear of a house can be permitted development under Part 1, Class A of the GPDO 2015. For detached houses, the standard PD allowance is 4m depth; for semi-detached and terraced houses, 3m. These can be extended to 8m/6m under the Larger Home Extension Scheme. The extension must be single storey, no higher than 4m, and not extend beyond the side elevation of the original house.

PD Rules for Kitchen Extensions

Condition Detail
Maximum depth (detached) 4m (up to 8m under Larger Home Extension Scheme)
Maximum depth (semi/terrace) 3m (up to 6m under Larger Home Extension Scheme)
Maximum height 4m (3m if within 2m of boundary)
Width Must not extend beyond the side elevation of the original house
Storey count Single storey only
Materials Must match the appearance of the exterior of the existing dwelling
⚠️ The limits apply to the ‘original dwelling’ — the house as it was on 1 July 1948. Previous extensions already built count against your allowance.

Roof Options

  • Flat roof with roof lantern: Very popular — brings natural light into what would otherwise be a dark rear room.
  • Mono-pitch (lean-to) roof: Simple and weatherproof with a contemporary feel.
  • Pitched roof: Matches house aesthetics, more expensive but more integrated.
  • Glass/polycarbonate roof: Creates a bright, conservatory-like space.
✅ Roof lanterns are permitted development as part of a kitchen extension.

Bifold and Sliding Doors

Bifold and sliding patio doors do not affect permitted development rights. The PD rules relate to the volume and position of the new structure, not the glazing details. You can install bifold doors, corner glass, or Crittall-style steel frames without affecting your PD rights.

Typical Kitchen Extension Costs

Item Approximate Cost
Small kitchen extension (up to 12m²) £15,000–25,000 (structure only)
Medium kitchen extension (12–25m²) £25,000–45,000
Large kitchen extension (25–40m²) £40,000–70,000+
Roof lantern £2,000–6,000
Bifold doors (3-panel) £3,000–6,000
New kitchen fit-out £10,000–30,000+ additional

FAQs

Can I build a kitchen extension without planning permission?
Yes — in most cases, a single-storey kitchen extension at the rear of a house is permitted development under Part 1, Class A of the GPDO 2015. For detached houses, the standard limit is 4m; for semi-detached and terraced houses, 3m. You can go further — up to 8m/6m — under the Larger Home Extension Scheme with prior approval.
Do I need building regulations for a kitchen extension?
Yes — all extensions require building regulations approval covering structure (Part A), insulation (Part L), fire safety (Part B), drainage (Part H), and electrics (Part P). A completion certificate confirms compliance and is important when you sell.

More on Permitted Development Rights

Extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings, solar panels — our complete guide covers everything.

Read the Complete PD Guide →

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