Do You Need Planning Permission for Your Mayfair Renovation?

Mayfair Construction
May 28
2 min read

One of the first questions we’re asked by clients is: “Do I need planning permission for this?” And it’s a good one - because starting your renovation on the wrong side of planning law can cost you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Mayfair is no ordinary postcode. It falls within the City of Westminster, which has strict rules around conservation, heritage, and building character. At Mayfair Construction, we help our clients navigate this complexity with ease. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is formal approval from your local authority to carry out building work that affects the external appearance or use of a property. It ensures developments align with wider planning policies, especially in sensitive areas like Mayfair.

When Do You Need Planning Permission?

You will almost certainly need planning permission if your renovation includes:

Extensions (rear, side, or roof)
Loft conversions with dormers or roof lights
Changes to windows or doors on the front elevation
Alterations to listed buildings
Basement excavations or light wells
Any change to the building's use (e.g. residential to commercial)

In Mayfair, many properties are either listed or fall within conservation areas, so planning permission becomes even more likely - even for minor changes.

What is Permitted Development?

In most areas of the UK, certain minor works can be done without full planning permission. These are called Permitted Development (PD) rights.

BUT in Mayfair:

PD rights are often removed due to conservation status
Flats and maisonettes don’t benefit from PD rights at all
Any external work may still require approval

Always check with Westminster Council or consult your contractor/architect before proceeding.

What About Listed Building Consent?

If your property is listed, you’ll need Listed Building Consent (LBC) for any internal or external changes that affect the building’s character - even painting, rewiring, or removing walls.

Failure to obtain LBC is a criminal offence, so it’s not something to take lightly.

Planning Permission Timeline

Pre-application advice (optional): 3–6 weeks
Full application: 8–12 weeks for decision (can be longer in complex cases)
Listed Building Consent: same timeframe but sometimes reviewed by different officers

We can manage the entire process on your behalf to save time and reduce stress.

How Mayfair Construction Helps

Feasibility checks before design begins
Collaboration with specialist planning consultants
Submission and tracking of applications
Liaison with conservation officers and heritage specialists
Party wall and neighbour notice support

Summary: Do You Need Planning Permission?

Type of Work	Planning Needed in Mayfair?
Painting/decorating inside	No, unless listed
Internal layout changes	Yes, if listed or structural
Rear/side extension	Usually yes
Loft conversion	Yes, especially in conservation area
Basement excavation	Yes
New windows/doors on front elevation	Yes

Thinking of Renovating in Mayfair?

We’ll help you get it right, from the very first sketch to the last brick laid. Planning and heritage are complicated—but they don’t have to be stressful. Let’s talk through your ideas and guide you through the permissions process with clarity and confidence.

Mayfair Construction Developments Limited

Unit 1 Petham Court Farm, BR8 8DL

Company Reg No.: 07048199