Once you know how you intend to use your Bonni, where it will be positioned and the size you require, it will become clear whether planning permission is needed. A general rule of thumb is that you will not need planning permission for an outbuilding with a maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres and a maximum overall height of 4 metres with a dual pitched roof, provided it meets the requirements of Permitted Development. Even so, a structure that might not require planning consent in one set of circumstances might need it in another. For example, if your house is Listed, or in a Conservation Area or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), different rules may apply.

Your Bonni will be considered Permitted Development and won't need planning permission as long as:

• It is less than 2m away from the boundary of your original house and has a maximum overall height of no more than 2.5m from existing ground level.

• It is to be placed more than 2m from the boundary of your original house, with a maximum eaves height of 2.5m and a maximum overall height of 3m for a flat roof and 4m for a pitched roof. Our Bonni Small and Medium will fall under this category. Some Bonni Large buildings may also fall under Permitted Development depending on their final size, height and position.

To summarise;

If you would like a Bonni with an overall height greater than 2.5m and placed less than 2m from your boundary, you will need to apply for planning permission.

You will also need planning permission if you decide to use your Bonni as a separate self-contained living accommodation, or if:

• It takes up more than 50% of the area of land around your original house.

• It is closer to a road or public highway than your original house.

Special Considerations to factor in are:

• If your original house is Listed, there are additional rules that apply. If your Bonni is to be placed within the curtilage of your property, you will need to apply for Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent.

• If your original house is located on designated land such as National Parks, the Broads, World Heritage Sites, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or Conservation Areas, certain additional rules apply.

• If your Bonni is to be placed in either National Parks, World Heritage Sites, the Broads or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the maximum area to be covered for a Bonni sitting more than 20m from any wall of the original house is 10m² (our Bonni Small). Anything bigger than this will require planning permission.

• If your Bonni is to be placed on designated land, including Conservation Areas, you cannot position your Bonni to the side of your original house.

Please note: Planning Permission and Building Regulations are separate requirements. Depending on the size, construction and intended use of your Bonni, Building Regulations approval may also be required. We'll happily guide you through both as part of your project.

Overall, slightly different rules apply in different parts of the UK. A good place to start is the Government's online Planning Portal, which offers quick and easy advice. While it only applies to England, the rules are broadly similar in the rest of the UK. You should always consult your local planning authority for guidance specific to your property and project. We can also support you with any planning applications that may be required.