Do I Need Planning Permission For a Conservatory On The Isle of Man?

If your conservatory falls into any of the above it does not mean you cannot build your conservatory, it just means planning permission will have to be applied for.

If we win your custom and you require planning approval we can handle the entire application process for you, so you don’t need to do anything.

Permitted Development

Conservatories are considered as an extension for the purposes of Permitted Development and as such a conservatory may be erected without a planning application under certain conditions, provided that the area does not exceed 15 square metres beyond that of the original house when first constructed.

It's important to note that you are only allowed a free pass once. This means if you have already built an extension under the permitted development rule then for a second extension/conservatory you would need planning approval - assuming the total footprint of both the old and the new will equate to more than 15 square metres.

Replacing a Conservatory

If planning was required and approved for your original conservatory you will usually not need to apply again as long as the design is not being changed.

For example, 12 years ago you or a previous owner made a planning application for an Edwardian style timber conservatory at the front of your house and it was granted.

You now wish to replace the timber conservatory with a UPVC one. The base is to be used again so the replacement will be the same Edwardian style as the original and you opt for a Rosewood woodgrain on the outside with white internal to match your windows.

In my experience this would be considered replacement of worn or failed parts and applying for planning again would not be required.

We always check with the planning office before proceeding though. You should note that the home owner is responsible for any planning permission.

If your builder tells you it is not required but you aren’t sure, you should always phone or visit the planning office to make sure.