The simplest and easiest way to add aesthetic elements to your property is by paving a gravel driveway. A gravel driveway seamlessly fills the gaps in your garden and gives a more natural look to your property while looking appealing to your guests and passersby.
However, do you need a permit for a gravel driveway? Let’s find out in this article.
Do you need a permit for a gravel driveway?
Most often, a permit is not required to build a gravel driveway. However, there are some exceptions. There are some regulations you may follow for making a gravel driveway,; if you stick to these, you may not require a permit. However, residents of some countries like Pierce Country require a permit to make a gravel driveway.
What are 2 ways you can avoid the need for planning permission for a driveway?
Most driveway paving projects do not require any planning permission. The same applies if you are retouching your existing driveway unless you live in a conservative area.
Planning permission may only be needed if you are setting up your driveway in a garden. Setting up driveways on gardens has caused drainage issues in the past leading to flash floods. Thus a permit is required.
However, you can avoid the permit altogether under the following circumstances:
- Permeable surface: If your new driveway has a permeable surface that allows water to pass through easily, you don’t need a permit. Many block pavings come under the umbrella of permeable surfaces. Since permeable surfaces like gravel driveways don’t cause water runoff issues, they don’t require a permit.
- Directed drainage: The water will go toward the driveway’s slope. Some driveways slope towards the public roads and drainage; thus, naturally, the water will be directed in that direction. However, if you can avoid that and adjust the slope towards your garden so the water flows there, you will not need any planning permission.
What can I put on my land without planning permission?
Though refurbishing an existing structure is often exciting, people tend to avoid it for the extensive planning permission requirements they entail. Thankfully, you can do quite a few things on your land without involving the planning commission.
1. Single-storey extension
These can be single-height additions to your house’s front and back. The limit for a rear extension can go up to 4m of the original house size and 3m in other cases.
However, there is some restriction around ridge heights and garden space you can cover, which is 50%. You must keep in mind that the plot boundaries and materials must match the existing house materials as far as possible.
2. Adding new windows band replacing old ones
Generally, no permission is required for any type of alteration provided the alteration matches the existing look and style of the house. You can also increase the existing fenestration, however, the bay windows are considered an extension. If you are adding side windows, there may be concerns about your neighbor’s privacy. Thus adding obscured glazing is essential.
3. Juliet balcony
Adding a Juliet balcony is ideal if you want to ramp your outdoor and living space. This extension is perfect for homes with limited outdoor spaces.
As per the government, a Juliet balcony with no extended platform or external access is pre-permitted. However, the laws might differ for those living in a conservative area.
4. Installing swimming pool
Swimming pools do not require planning permission as long as you are not using up your entire garden. A standard pool can quickly be installed for the upcoming summer.
Does a gravel driveway add value?
A paved gravel driveway can enhance the value of your property by 5%. They make the exterior more aesthetically appealing and reduce maintenance costs during winter, enhance the curb appeal, and keep the cars clean.
A properly paved driveway is one of the key markers to achieving a quality home appraisal, which increases the price of the property in the market.
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frequently asked questions (fAQs)
Can you have a gravel driveway in Columbus Ohio?
No. According to state laws, the driving pad must be made from strong materials like concrete or asphalt. Though gravel is not approved in the state, it can be used as a foundation material.
Do you need a permit for a driveway in Tennessee?
Yes, as per Tennessee State law, a permit is mandatory to construct driveways and state highways on the right. Permits are also required for any change, revision, or modification.
What are the driveway laws in New York State?
While the permits for driveways in New York are relaxed, if you live on the State Highway, you will require a permit from the NYS Department of Transportation to make or modify a driveway.
Do I need a permit to add an NJ driveway?
No. You don’t need a permit for a driveway in NJ unless you are relocating the driveway or enhancing its size. In such cases, you will require a zoning permit.
Conclusion:
Not every state is strict about a permit and most often you don’t need one to set up a gravel driveway. However, rules differ from one state to another, and thus it’s essential to check with the local authorities before you start your construction.