Before you start
You should check whether your proposal needs planning permission before creating a new driveway or access.
Check if you need planning permission
Creating off‑street parking (driveways)
You may not need planning permission to create off‑street parking within your property.
Planning permission is not usually required if:
- the works are within your property boundary
- permitted development rules apply
However, planning permission may be required if:
- the property is in a conservation area or subject to additional restrictions
- the works involve significant changes to the land or levels
- the development would affect the character of the area
Front gardens may require planning permission if they are covered by certain types of hard surface.
Dropped kerbs (vehicle access to the highway)
If you need to drive over a pavement or verge to access your property, you must apply for a dropped kerb.
A dropped kerb is where the pavement or kerb is lowered to allow vehicles to access a driveway.
You must not carry out this work yourself.
Find out how to apply for a dropped kerb
This is not a planning application. It is a separate process managed by the highway authority.
When planning permission may be required
You may need planning permission if:
- a new access is proposed onto a classified road
- the works are not permitted development
- the property is in a conservation area or subject to restrictions
- permitted development rights have been removed (for example by condition or Article 4 Direction)
Whether planning permission is required depends on the specific circumstances of your property and the proposed works.
Conservation areas and Article 4 Directions
If your property is in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 Direction, additional controls may apply.
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.
In Westmorland and Furness, Article 4 Directions generally focus on external alterations such as materials, boundaries and the appearance of front gardens.
This may affect works such as creating a new driveway or removing boundary walls.
Other restrictions may still apply depending on your property and circumstances.
Find out more about conservation areas and Article 4 Directions.
Other permissions you may need
You may also need:
- approval from the highway authority (dropped kerb licence)
- Building Regulations approval (in some cases)
- permission from your landlord or freeholder (if applicable)
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: