Exempt Structures

Not all buildings and extensions are subject to the Building Regulations. Amongst the works that are exempt from the Building Regulations are:

• Porches
• Conservatories
• Small Detached Buildings
• Larger Detached Buildings
• Car ports

Separate guidance should be obtained as to whether the development will require planning permission

Domestic Porches 

Domestic Porches are exempt from Building Regulations provided that:

• It has a floor area not exceeding 30 square metres
• It is an extension to a dwelling at ground level
• The glazing complies with Approved Document N of the Building Regulations i.e. Protection against impact

NB Approved Document N requires glazing with which people might collide to be such that the risk of being cut is limited.

Car Ports

Car Ports are exempt from the Building Regulations provided that they are open on at least 2 sides and have a floor area which does not exceed 30 square metres.

Covered Ways/Yards

Covered ways / yards are exempt so long as they have an internal floor area less than 30m2

Conservatories

Conservatories are exempt from the Building Regulations provided that

• They have a floor area less than 30m2;
• They are constructed at ground level;
• At least 75% of the roof and 50% of the walls are glazed with a translucent material;
• The existing walls, windows and doors separating the conservatory from the existing house must be retained, and no additional openings created;
• The glazing complies with Approved Document N of the building regulations i.e. Protection against impact

Small Detached Buildings 

Detached Buildings which have a floor area not exceeding 15 square metres (e.g. sheds and greenhouses) do not need an application to be made under the Building Regulations 2000.

Large Detached Buildings

Large detached buildings that have a floor area exceeding 15 square metres, but not more than 30 square metres, are exempt from the Building Regulations provided that they are at least 1 metre away from the boundary. Alternatively the structure should be constructed entirely of non combustible materials.For further information relating to Approved Document N of the Building Regulations: Glazing - safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning.