Time to do up your home without the red tape

Wednesday 23 December 2015

Getting some work done on your house next year has become a whole lot easier.

The Planning Minister has relaxed the rules so you can make some changes to your home without planning permission.

Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce said: “Earlier this year we did a round of consultation with people who use the planning system. People asked for a simpler process and it was something we’d also identified as a service we wanted to improve. We’ve acted quickly and responded to those concerns.

“As part of the wider approach to government reform – making the public service leaner and fit for purpose – and to save money and time, we’ve made our processes simpler and easier for people.

“On a personal note, cutting the red tape associated with planning has long been an ambition of mine and I’m delighted to have achieved it within a year of coming into office.”

The changes will be good news for businesses too including those in hospitality and health and fitness and it will be easier for pubs and clubs to move to new premises.

From early next year you’ll be able to:

• Change windows and doors on non-listed buildings;

• Advertise charity events on signs without permission for a limited period of time;

• Make your home warmer by insulating your walls and roof up to 15 cm (using an external insulating render system);

There will also be fewer restrictions on replacement signs and the size of shop signs as well as advertising on construction scaffolding and hoardings.

You'll have more time to set up marquees and tents for special events too and there's more leeway on energy efficiency measures and the size of solar panels and you can make flat roof structures and extensions bigger because the heigh restrictions are being increased.