Quick summary: Planning Permission Cambridge
If you're planning to extend, convert or remodel your home in or around Cambridge, it’s vital to understand how planning permission in Cambridge works. The city is home to strict conservation areas, Article 4 directions, and a mix of council policies that vary between Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.
- Cambridge has many Article 4 and Conservation Areas – you may need permission even for smaller changes.
- Planning permission Cambridge costs are usually £258 for a householder application, plus drawing fees.
- Check if your home is in South Cambs or the City boundary – the rules and contacts differ.
- Permitted Development may apply – but always check before you build.
This guide walks you through how planning permission works locally, where to check if you need permission, what to include in your application, and what local quirks to be aware of.
Planning something in Cambridge?
Share your idea with our team and we’ll check if you need permission, drawings or just a Lawful Development Certificate.
Do you need planning permission in Cambridge?
Planning permission is usually required when you are making external alterations to your home that go beyond what's allowed under Permitted Development. In Cambridge, extra care is needed because many properties fall within conservation areas, listed zones, or Article 4 areas – meaning your rights may be removed.
If your project is straightforward – such as a modest rear extension – and outside a sensitive area, you may still be able to use Permitted Development. Our guide Do I Need Planning Permission? can help you decide.
Cambridge vs South Cambridgeshire – which council handles your application?
Cambridge is split into two main local authorities:
- Cambridge City Council – covers the urban area, including central Cambridge, Chesterton, Romsey and Queen Edith’s.
- South Cambridgeshire District Council – covers villages and outskirts such as Trumpington Meadows, Histon, Girton and Grantchester.
Where you live affects which policies apply. Check your postcode on the council websites:
Planning permission costs in Cambridge
Planning application fees are set nationally but your total costs will include more than just the council charge.
- Householder application fee: £258 (as of 2025)
- Planning drawings: usually £700–£1,500 for a typical extension or loft conversion
- Optional extras: site surveys, 3D visuals, or heritage reports if you're in a conservation area
See our full guide on Planning Permission Cost to break down what’s involved.
Not sure if your idea needs permission?
We’ll check the local maps and let you know if Permitted Development applies or not.
How to check if you need planning permission in Cambridge
Here are a few quick ways to check whether your home improvement idea needs permission:
- Use the Planning Portal interactive guides
- Search your postcode on the Cambridge City or South Cambs application map
- Use our guide to check permitted development
- Ask us – we’ll review your property boundary and planning context
Even for permitted projects, we often recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate to confirm that you’re covered.
Cambridge planning quirks and common gotchas
- Article 4 directions: Areas like Petersfield and Newnham remove PD rights – you’ll need permission even for small changes.
- Conservation areas: Over 30 across Cambridge; extra scrutiny applies to materials and designs.
- Parking standards: Car-free homes may be encouraged in city centre zones – check policies before converting a garage or dropping a kerb.
FAQs: Planning Permission Cambridge
How do I check planning permission in Cambridge?
Start by using the interactive maps on the Cambridge City Council or South Cambs websites. You can also check your site on the Planning Portal or contact a local consultant like Plans Made Easy to interpret your site’s constraints.
What does planning permission cost in Cambridge?
The national fee for a householder application is £258 (as of 2025). However, you also need to budget for drawings and optional extras. Most planning drawing packages cost £700–£1,500 for typical extensions.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in Cambridge?
Many loft conversions fall under Permitted Development. However, if your home is in a conservation area or under Article 4 direction, you may still need permission. Our loft conversion planning guide explains the details.
What’s different about planning in South Cambridgeshire?
South Cambs has its own local policies, design codes and conservation map. Some rural properties have different constraints. Always check which council you fall under before applying.
- Householder application fee£258 (England-wide as of 2025)
- Typical drawing costs£700–£1,500 for most projects
- Planning authoritiesCambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council
- Common constraintsConservation areas, Article 4, listed buildings, access and parking
- Permitted DevelopmentAvailable in some areas but often restricted in central Cambridge
Not sure if you need permission? Ask our team to check your postcode and proposal for free.
Official guidance
Next steps & useful guides
- Do I Need Planning Permission?
- Planning Permission Drawings
- Planning Permission Cost
- Making Plans
- Loft Conversion Planning Permission
Need help with your Cambridge planning application?
We’ll prepare drawings, manage the process, and keep your application on track from start to finish.
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