Do I Need Planning Permission for a New Driveway in Scotland?
When planning a new driveway, one of the first questions homeowners ask is: “Do I need planning permission for a new driveway in Scotland?”
It’s a fair question – the rules can be confusing, and many homeowners worry about breaching regulations. The good news is that, in most cases, you won’t need formal planning permission for a driveway, but there are important exceptions to understand first.
When You Don’t Need Planning Permission
In most Scottish homes, you can install or replace a driveway under permitted development rights.
This applies if:
- The surface is permeable, allowing water to soak through naturally (e.g. gravel or permeable block paving)
- Any rainwater is directed to a drainage area within your property, not onto the public road or pavement
- You’re not significantly changing the access point (for example, widening an existing entrance)
This means that if you’re simply upgrading an old surface to something like permeable block paving or gravel, you can often go ahead without formal approval.
When You Do Need Planning Permission
Planning permission may be required in the following cases:
- The new surface will cause rainwater to run onto the public road or pavement
- You’re adding or widening a driveway that joins directly onto a main road
- The property is in a conservation area or forms part of a listed building
- The surface is non-permeable (for example, traditional tarmac without adequate drainage)
In these cases, you’ll need to apply for planning consent through your local council before work begins.
If you’re in Glasgow, you can check the latest local requirements on the Glasgow City Council Planning Portal
Understanding Dropped Kerbs (Vehicle Access Applications)
Even if your new driveway doesn’t need planning permission, you’ll still need council approval for a dropped kerb. This allows your vehicle to cross the pavement legally and safely.
Every local authority manages this process separately, but the general steps are:
- Submit an application to your council’s roads department.
- Provide details of the materials, width, and drainage for your proposed driveway.
- Pay an inspection fee, which covers site visits and approval.
- Once approved, work must be carried out by a council-approved contractor.
If you live in Glasgow, visit the Dropped Kerb Application page for guidance and forms.
Our team frequently handles these applications on behalf of homeowners to make the process as smooth as possible.
Common Misconceptions About Driveway Planning
Many homeowners assume that if a neighbour has a driveway, they automatically have the same rights — but that’s not always true. Conditions vary depending on road type, surface materials, and local drainage capacity.
Other misconceptions include:
- “If it’s small, it doesn’t need permission.”
– Not necessarily true. Any surface that could cause water runoff onto a public road needs approval. - “Tarmac driveways are always fine.”
– Only if proper drainage is installed or the material is porous. - “The council will handle drainage.”
– Drainage is the homeowner’s responsibility. If it’s poorly designed, you could be forced to redo the work later.
Why It Pays to Get Professional Advice
Navigating planning rules and kerb permissions can be confusing, especially with different regulations across councils. Working with an experienced driveway installer ensures that every part of your project – from surface choice to drainage and permissions – is handled correctly.
At Neil Walker Driveways, we’ve helped hundreds of Glasgow homeowners design and install compliant driveways that look great and meet all local requirements. With no upfront payments, a 5-year workmanship warranty and Marshalls and Tobermore accreditations, you can trust us to get it right first time.
