Do you need planning permission for a new driveway?

Rules checked against the Planning Portal on 17 October 2026. Local rules can differ, so confirm with your council.

The short answer

You do not need planning permission for a new or replacement driveway of any size if it uses a permeable surface. Gravel and permeable block paving both count. You also do not need it if rainwater drains onto a lawn or border within your property.

When you do need permission

If you pave a front garden with a traditional impermeable surface, such as standard tarmac or concrete, and it covers more than 5 square metres, you need planning permission. The exception is when the water drains to a permeable area on your own land.

How to stay inside the rules

• Choose a permeable surface, such as gravel or permeable block paving.
• Or slope the drive to a lawn or border so rainwater soaks in.
• Or fit drainage such as a soakaway on your own land.

We build the drainage into the plan and explain it in the written quote.

Dropped kerbs

If you want to drive across a pavement or a grass verge to reach your property, you need a dropped kerb. It is illegal to cross a pavement without one. You apply to your local highways authority, and you pay for the work. The application is separate from planning permission, so start it early.

On A, B and C roads a new access may also need planning permission, so check this with your council first.

These are the authorities that cover our area:

• Central Bedfordshire Council
• Bedford Borough Council
• Luton Borough Council
• Hertfordshire County Council
• Milton Keynes City Council
• Buckinghamshire Council

When the rules do not apply

The permitted development rules cover houses only. They do not cover flats, some converted houses or listed buildings. They also do not apply where an Article 4 Direction or a planning condition removes them, which is common in conservation areas and on some newer estates. Walls, fences and gates may need permission too.