Painting your property is generally considered a cosmetic alteration rather than a structural change

Does painting and decorating require planning permission?

The short answer is: in most cases, no, you do not need planning permission to paint your home in London. Painting your property is generally considered a cosmetic alteration rather than a structural change, and as such, it falls under the category of "permitted development." This means that you can typically go ahead and paint your home without seeking formal approval from your local planning authority. However, there are a few important caveats to keep in mind:

Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas: If your property is a listed building or located within a conservation area, special restrictions may apply. In these cases, you may need to obtain consent from your local council before making any alterations, including painting the exterior of your home. It's always wise to check with your local borough planning authority to determine whether any additional permissions are required.

Colour Restrictions: While you're generally free to choose the colour of paint for your home's exterior, there are some exceptions. If you live in a conservation area or a property covered by a homeowners' association (HOA) or similar governing body, there may be regulations or guidelines regarding the external appearance of properties. These could include restrictions on certain colours or finishes, so it's worth checking any relevant regulations before proceeding.

Listed Building Consent: If your property is listed, even if you're only planning to repaint it in the same colour, you may still need to obtain listed building consent. This is because any alterations to listed buildings, including changes to their appearance, are subject to strict regulations aimed at preserving their historic character and architectural significance.

Advertisement Consent: If you're planning to paint a mural or any form of advertisement on the exterior of your property, you may need to obtain advertisement consent from your local planning authority. This applies even if the advertisement is temporary or non-commercial in nature.

Neighbourhood Considerations: While planning permission may not be required for painting your home, it's always a good idea to consider the impact of your chosen color scheme on the surrounding neighborhood. Opting for garish or unconventional colours could potentially upset your neighbours and even affect property values, so it's worth being mindful of the overall aesthetic harmony of your area.

In summary, painting your home in London typically doesn't require planning permission, unless you live in a listed building or conservation area, or if you're planning significant alterations such as painting a mural or advertisement. However, it's important to familiarise yourself with any relevant regulations and seek advice from your local planning authority if you're unsure. With careful consideration and adherence to any necessary guidelines, you can give your home a fresh new look without running afoul of planning laws.

For help with painting your London home, call Painters and Decorators London today.