builderfinder.uk
← Back to Advice

Kitchen Extension Planning Permission in Streatham

08 Aug 2026

A rear kitchen extension in Streatham usually doesn't need full planning permission, provided it stays within permitted development limits - though Streatham's conservation areas can restrict or remove that right on certain 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 in Streatham, 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 London Borough of Lambeth and waiting out an objection period first.

Height limits typically apply too - commonly around 4m maximum for a single-storey rear extension, and no higher than 4m within 2m of a boundary.

What's different in Streatham

the Streatham High Road & Streatham Hill, Streatham Common and Streatham Park conservation areas covering parts of Streatham often means reduced or removed permitted development rights - expect closer attention to matching materials, roofline and window style to the existing house. Check your property's exact status with the London Borough of Lambeth before finalising anything.

Get it confirmed, don't assume it

Even where permitted development likely applies, a Lawful Development Certificate from the London Borough of Lambeth 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 Streatham will usually have a good instinct for whether your plans qualify, but the council's confirmation is what removes doubt entirely.

Ready to get quotes? Post your job on builderfinder.uk and hear from vetted, reviewed builders who cover Streatham - it's free, and your details stay private until you accept one.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Streatham?

Usually not up to 3m (terraced/semi-detached) or 4m (detached) beyond the rear wall - or 6m/8m via the larger home extension prior approval scheme - but the Streatham High Road & Streatham Hill, Streatham Common and Streatham Park conservation areas can restrict or remove this right, so check with the London Borough of Lambeth first.

What's a Lawful Development Certificate, and do I need one?

It's a formal, low-cost confirmation from the London Borough of Lambeth that your extension doesn't need planning permission because it's within permitted development. It's optional but strongly recommended, since it removes any doubt if a neighbour complains or you sell the house later.