What is planning permission for driveways?
Planning permission is formal consent required from the local council before building or resurfacing a driveway, typically needed when the surface area exceeds 5 square metres of non-permeable material.
Driveways in Cheltenham fall under permitted development rules, which allow certain construction work without formal planning approval. However, these rules have a key threshold: if your driveway surface is larger than 5 square metres and uses non-permeable material (such as concrete, asphalt, or tarmac), you must obtain planning permission from Cheltenham Borough Council before work begins.
Non-permeable surfaces are those that do not allow water to drain through them. This threshold exists to manage surface water run-off and flooding risk in residential areas. Permeable alternatives like gravel, porous asphalt, or permeable block paving may fall outside the requirement, though local conditions can affect this.
If your planned driveway is 5 square metres or smaller, or if you choose a permeable surface material, you typically do not need planning permission. For any work exceeding these limits, you must submit an application to Cheltenham Borough Council and receive approval before your contractor can proceed.
Many driveway paving contractors in Cheltenham are familiar with these rules and can advise whether your project requires permission. Proceeding without permission when it is required can result in enforcement action and requirement to remove or alter the surface at your expense.