Dorset
Larger home extension prior approval (England) in Dorset
Up to 6 m (attached) or 8 m (detached) deep, after neighbour consultation. We design and build rear extensions across Dorset, from Bournemouth and Poole to Weymouth, covering single-storey kitchen extensions, two-storey additions, side returns and wraparounds.
Dorset has Victorian terraces nearer the centre and post-war semis on the edges. Sloping gardens are frequent, which affects floor levels and steps down to the patio.
How much does a prior approval rear extension cost in Dorset?
In Dorset, our guide for a prior approval rear extension is £1,980–£3,220 per square metre including VAT for a standard specification. South West prices run slightly above our West Midlands baseline; natural stone to match the house is the main variable.
| Size | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| 3 m wide × 4 m deep (12 m²) | £23,500–£38,500 |
| 4 m wide × 5 m deep (20 m²) | £39,500–£64,500 |
| 4 m wide × 6 m deep (24 m²) | £47,500–£77,500 |
Your written price follows a measured survey and an agreed design, so it reflects your house, not an average.
Do you need planning permission in Dorset?
England also has the larger home extension route: a single-storey rear extension of up to 6 metres on an attached house or 8 metres on a detached house, after prior approval from the council. The council notifies your neighbours and has 42 days to decide; the fee is £249 (£310 for applications made from 8 December 2026). The route is not available on designated land such as conservation areas.
Conservation areas, National Parks, National Landscapes and the Broads restrict permitted development, and listed buildings always need listed building consent.
Where in Dorset do we work?
FAQ
Questions people ask
How deep can I go with prior approval?
6 metres on attached houses and 8 metres on detached houses, single-storey only, up to 4 metres high.
Can my neighbours stop it?
They can object; the council then judges the effect on their amenity. Many schemes are approved after objections.
What happens after 42 days?
If the council has not decided, you can proceed. We still recommend waiting for written confirmation where possible.
Do you cover all of Dorset?
We cover 14 towns and districts in Dorset, including Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth.
Who builds the extension?
Vetted building teams working under contract to us; your contract is with S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd.