home art

How far can you extend to the rear in London?

3 m, 4 m, 6 m and 8 m explained, prior approval, and the neighbour consultation scheme.

2 min readUpdated October 2026England

Four thresholds

  • 3 m deep (terrace, semi) or 4 m (detached): permitted development under Class A.
  • 6 m (terrace, semi) or 8 m (detached): the larger home extension scheme — prior approval with a 42-day neighbour consultation. Not available in conservation areas.
  • Two-storey rear: 3 m deep and at least 7 m from the rear boundary.
  • Beyond these: full planning permission.

Other Class A conditions

  • Maximum height 4 m; eaves no higher than 3 m within 2 m of a boundary.
  • Total ground covered by extensions and outbuildings no more than 50% of the original garden.
  • Not forward of the principal elevation.
  • Materials similar to the existing house.

The neighbour consultation scheme

For a 4–6 m extension you notify the council, who writes to adjoining neighbours. If nobody objects within 21 days, you can proceed after the council confirms. If a neighbour objects, the council assesses the impact on their amenity — usually daylight and outlook — and can refuse.

What Plan Check adds

Depth against each threshold, the 45-degree daylight rule for the neighbours, conservation and Article 4 status, and the approvals and refusals on your street in the last three years.

General information for England, not advice on your property. Rules change; we check the current position in every report.

Plan Check

Know exactly what you can build — before you spend a penny on an architect.

See Plan Check