When you will need planning permission
You will need planning permission for some projects, including:
Protected trees
You must also apply or give notice to the council if you want to work on a protected tree if you are carrying out development where full planning permission is not needed.
Any pruning or felling of a tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order will require consent.
Any works to trees in a conservation area require 6 week's notice in writing.
For more information and advice about trees and hedgerows, email: pla.tpo@birmingham.gov.uk
Larger home extensions
You must let the council know if you want to build a large extension.
The Larger Home Extensions Scheme is a way to get prior approval.
The scheme applies to larger, single-storey rear extensions.
You must use this process for rear extensions:
- over 4 metres and up to 8 metres for detached houses
- over 3 metres and up to 6 metres for all other houses
When you apply, the council will consult your adjoining neighbours about your proposals.
If your neighbours raise any concerns or objections, the council will decide whether your plans can go ahead based on their impact.
Page last updated: 22 October 2025