Before you start
You should check whether your proposal needs planning permission.
Check if you need planning permission
Using your home as a holiday let
In many cases, occasional or short‑term letting does not require planning permission.
Your property can usually remain in the same planning use (known as a dwellinghouse) if it is still mainly used as a home.
When planning permission may be required
You may need planning permission if the use of the property changes from a home to a more commercial holiday let.
Planning permission may be required if:
- the property is used regularly or intensively for short term lets
- there is a high turnover of different guests
- the property is no longer used as a main residence
- the use changes the character of the property or the area
- there are impacts such as noise, disturbance or increased activity
Whether a change of use has occurred is assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking account of how the property is used and its impact.
The more a property is used like a business rather than a home, the more likely planning permission may be required.
Flats and shared buildings
If your property is a flat, additional restrictions may apply.
You should also check:
- lease or tenancy agreements
- building management or freeholder rules
Conservation areas and restrictions
If your property is in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 Direction, additional controls may apply to external changes to the property.
Article 4 Directions usually apply to specific types of external changes, particularly those visible from the street or public areas, such as the front of a property.
Find out more about conservation areas and Article 4 Directions.
Other permissions you may need
You may also need to consider:
- licensing requirements (where applicable)
- council tax or business rates
- fire safety and building regulations
- landlord or mortgage conditions
Further guidance
Planning permission depends on your property and the proposed installation.
You can:
- check permitted development guidance
- apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for formal confirmation
Get advice before you apply
If you are unsure about your proposal, you can: