Kitchen Extension Planning Permission in Brighton

Most single-storey rear kitchen extensions in Brighton fall under permitted development, meaning no full planning application is needed - but the limits are specific, and the city's Regency conservation areas can remove that right entirely on some streets.

Permitted development limits

A single-storey rear extension is commonly allowed up to 3m beyond the rear wall for a terraced or semi-detached house, or 4m for a detached one, without needing planning permission. The "larger home extension" prior approval scheme extends those limits to 6m and 8m respectively, but requires notifying neighbours via the council and waiting out an objection period first. Height limits also apply - commonly around 4m maximum, and no higher than 4m within 2m of a boundary.

Where it gets more complicated

Brighton's Regency stucco terraces, concentrated around the seafront, Kemp Town and parts of the Lanes, typically fall within conservation areas where stucco, sash windows and roofline need close matching - a modern finish is rarely accepted. On the steep streets around Hanover and Round Hill, access for deliveries, scaffolding and groundwork is also worth factoring into any quote early.

Get it confirmed, don't assume it

A Lawful Development Certificate from Brighton & Hove City Council is a formal, low-cost confirmation that protects you if a neighbour complains or you sell the house later. A builder who works regularly in your specific part of the city will usually already know whether your street sits inside a conservation area.