Article 4 Directions

An Article 4 direction can mean that work which would normally be allowed without a planning application needs permission first.

What an Article 4 direction does

Councils can use an Article 4 direction to remove specific permitted development rights from a defined area or type of property. The direction must say which rights it removes and where it applies.

It does not ban the work. It means the council must consider a planning application before the work can go ahead.

Work it may cover

The exact controls vary. In some areas they cover changes such as replacing windows or doors, changing roof materials, altering boundary walls, adding porches or converting a building to a different use.

Do not rely on another council's list. Read the direction and map issued by the council responsible for the property.

How to check your property

1. Find the property's local planning authority.
2. Open the council's Article 4 page, direction and map.
3. Check the property is inside the affected area and that the planned work is one of the rights removed.
4. Ask the council if the documents do not give a clear answer.

Official guidance

Read the GOV.UK planning guidance on Article 4 directions.