Planning law exemptions: significant expansion in number

After many months of hard work by the Development and Planning Authority, and after a series of debates in the States of Deliberation, the 29^th March 2023 was an important day in the world of local planning law.

It is that date which saw the new 2023 Planning Law Exemptions Ordinance come into force, and which replaces the much more restrictive positions that have been with us since 2017.

Government press releases indicate that there are now 132 activities that do not require planning permission, more than double the previous number.

The 2023 Ordinance states that there are now 13 Classes of Exempt Development, ranging from development within the curtilage of a dwelling-house, to agricultural development and to demolition.

By way of practical examples, the following do not require planning permission (with certain caveats):

1. Re-roofing of dwelling-houses;
2. Building a porch, or enclosing a porch;
3. Putting up a freestanding greenhouse;
4. Replacing a gate, fence or wall;
5. Installing a swimming pool;
6. Installing an air source heat pump;
7. Constructing an earthbank;
8. Installing post and rail fencing on agricultural land; and
9. Displaying a terre à l’amende sign.

Before embarking on any form of development, it is always advisable to check the 2023 Ordinance, and which can be found by clicking here.

The new position is welcomed, not only for home owners, but also from an administrative perspective since planning applications may now reduce for what would historically have required that step to be taken.

For help and assistance with any Guernsey and UK property matter generally, please feel free to contact us.