Do You Need Planning Permission for a Driveway in Sunderland?

Thinking of installing a new driveway at your Sunderland home? Before you start digging or calling in the contractors, it’s important to know whether you’ll need planning permission.

The good news? In most cases, you don’t need it. But there are a few key rules to understand first — especially when it comes to drainage and the type of materials you use.

At Sunderland Paving, we deal with this question all the time. So here’s a simple guide to help you stay on the right side of local regulations.

When You Don’t Need Planning Permission

In most situations, you can lay or replace a driveway without planning permission as long as:

• The surface is permeable (allows water to drain through), such as gravel, permeable block paving, or resin-bound stone
• Or, if the surface is non-permeable (like tarmac or concrete), you include a proper drainage system that channels water into a soakaway or garden — not the road

This falls under what’s called permitted development rights.

So, if you’re using the right materials and managing rainwater properly, you’re free to go ahead without permission from Sunderland City Council.

When Planning Permission Is Required

There are a few situations where planning permission is needed:

1. You’re Paving Over a Front Garden With Non-Permeable Materials

If you’re planning to cover more than 5 square metres of your front garden with an impermeable material like concrete or standard block paving and don’t have appropriate drainage, you’ll need to apply for permission.

2. You’re Changing Access to a Main Road

If your new driveway involves creating or widening a dropped kerb or changing access onto a main road, the council may need to approve it. This is to ensure traffic and pedestrian safety.

3. Your Home Is in a Conservation Area

Some parts of Sunderland — like parts of Ashbrooke or Roker — are designated conservation areas. In these areas, even minor changes to your home’s exterior might need approval. Always check before starting work.

4. You Live in a Listed Building

If your property is listed, you may need both planning permission and listed building consent — especially if the driveway work affects the character of the property.

What Counts as a Permeable Driveway?

Permeable driveways allow water to naturally drain through the surface, helping to prevent flooding and runoff.

Examples include:

• Gravel
• Resin-bound stone
• Permeable block paving
• Surfaces with drainage channels and a proper soakaway

At Sunderland Paving, we specialise in designing driveways that meet these rules, so you won’t need to worry about navigating planning departments.

How to Check If Your Driveway Needs Permission

If you’re not sure, do this:

1. Measure the area – is it over 5m²?
2. Check the materials – are they permeable?
3. Think about drainage – where will water go?
4. Check your location – is your property in a conservation area or listed?

You can also call Sunderland City Council’s planning team or check the Planning Portal for general UK guidance.

Can You Be Fined for Ignoring the Rules?

Yes. If you install a non-compliant driveway without permission, you may be asked to remove it or make costly changes later. It could also cause issues if you sell the property down the line.

That’s why it’s best to get it right from the start.

Final Thoughts

Most homeowners in Sunderland won’t need planning permission for a driveway — as long as you use permeable materials or install proper drainage.

Still unsure? Let us help.

At Sunderland Paving, we handle planning, drainage, and installation. We’ll tell you exactly what you need (or don’t need) before starting any work.