Most houses in England and
Wales benefit from permitted development rights that allow homes to be extended
without applying for planning permission. Whilst loft conversions and
conservatories are the most popular forms of extension under permitted development
rights, the General Permitted Development Order 2008 or GDPO is actually most
generous where outbuildings are concerned. This article looks at how to get the
most out of permitted development rights for outbuildings, garden rooms,
summerhouses, garden sheds and home offices.