Windows & doors in Somerset: Planning Permission Guide
A guide to replacing windows and doors in Somerset — when you need planning permission and typical costs.
Based on 23 decided applications in Somerset over 12 months (21 granted, 2 refused).
Somerset borders or partially overlaps Exmoor National Park and the Blackdown Hills, Cotswolds, Cranborne Chase, Mendip Hills, and Quantock Hills AONBs — properties near those boundaries are on Article 1(5) land where permitted-development rights are restricted. Somerset has 178 conservation areas — extensive heritage coverage restricting external alterations across many streets. Over 5,000 listed buildings recorded across the borough.
Recent windows & doors decisions in Somerset
The 5 most recent decided applications. Addresses redacted to postcode area.
Replace existing front bay windows & the external board/panel between them, replace with composite or similar design.
Works to include window/door replacements, creation of new openings, new canopy to side door & localised areas of re-roofing
Replacement windows to the front elevation.
Remove window and replace with new door & window
Change of material of windows and doors from timber to aluminium.
These are borough-wide. See the 5 nearest to your address.
Check your address freePermitted Development Rules
Replacing or adding windows/doors may need planning permission in conservation areas or for listed buildings.
Replacing windows and doors like-for-like generally doesn't need planning permission. However, in conservation areas or listed buildings, changes to the appearance of windows and doors may require consent.
Typical Costs in South West England
Window and door costs depend on the number of openings, material choice, and style.
Typical total
Typically includes
Typically excludes
Highly variable depending on number of windows, material (UPVC vs timber vs aluminium), and style. Per-window costs typically £450–£1,300.
Get a personalised cost estimate based on your actual windows & doors dimensions.
Get my estimateWhich Professionals Do You Need?
Window replacements rarely need professional services. Suppliers typically handle measurement, manufacture, and installation.
This project is unlikely to need specialist professional services beyond a competent builder.
This type of project does not typically require architectural services.
This guidance is based on a typical semi-detached house with no special constraints. Listed buildings, conservation areas, and attached properties may require additional professional input.
Find out exactly which professionals you need for your windows & doors.
Get personalised guidanceConservation Areas & Listed Buildings
In conservation areas, changing window materials (e.g. timber to UPVC) or styles may need planning permission. Listed buildings always need Listed Building Consent for any window or door changes.
Properties in conservation areas often have reduced permitted development rights. Some project types (like side extensions) lose PD rights entirely. An Article 4 Direction can remove additional PD rights.
Listed buildings (Grade I, II*, or II) have no permitted development rights at all. Any external alteration requires Listed Building Consent in addition to any planning permission. An architect experienced in heritage work is essential.
Check if your property is in a conservation area or has other planning constraints.
Check my propertyFrequently Asked Questions
Just want a quick yes/no for your windows & doors?
Run our free 2-minute check to see whether your project likely qualifies as permitted development in Somerset — your address, your constraints, your council's own recent decisions.
Free 2-min check