Permeable surfaces and the 2008 rule
In England, paving more than five square metres of front garden with a surface that doesn't let water through needs planning permission, unless the water is directed to a lawn, border or soakaway on your own land. Porous surfaces such as resin-bound, gravel and permeable block paving avoid that issue.
Living near the rivers
Parts of York sit in flood zones close to the Ouse and the Foss. Here, keeping water on your own plot matters even more. We look at the ground, the falls and where existing water goes before deciding on a surface, and we avoid raising levels in ways that could push water towards a neighbour or the house.
Conservation areas
York has more than thirty conservation areas, including the historic core and many suburbs and villages. Being in one doesn't automatically mean you can't have a driveway, but removing front walls or railings and paving gardens can affect the character the area is protected for. Some streets also have Article 4 directions, which take away certain permitted development rights. City of York Council's planning team can tell you what applies to your address.
Listed buildings and walls
Listed houses, and sometimes their boundary walls and railings, need listed building consent for changes. Even where a wall isn't listed, an old brick wall with stone copings is often worth keeping or rebuilding in the same style.
Trees
Many York streets and gardens have mature trees, some protected by tree preservation orders or by conservation area rules. Digging close to roots can harm them, so we plan excavation and may use no-dig construction near trees where appropriate.
Our advice
Ask the council before you commit if you are in any doubt. We'll point out anything we think may need checking as soon as we know your address.