Planning permission is not always required to run a business from your home; it will depend upon the type of business and the intensity of the business use proposed. The main test of whether planning permission is required or not is whether the overall character of the dwelling will change as a result of the business use i.e. there will be a material change of use of the property.
As a general guide if the answer is yes to any of the following questions then planning permission will be required:
- Will your home no longer be used mainly as a private residence?
- Will your business result in a marked rise in traffic or people calling?
- Will your business involve any activities unusual in a residential area?
- Will your business disturb your neighbours at unreasonable hours or create other forms of nuisance such as noise or smells?
Further guidance on whether planning permission is required to run a business from your home.
If you are unsure whether planning permission is required to run a business from your home the Council offers a pre-application advice service.