Front garden drainage
You do not need planning permission to pave a front garden if the surface is permeable, or if rainwater runs to a lawn, border or soakaway on your property. A non-permeable surface over 5 square metres that drains onto the road needs permission, and water must never run onto the pavement or road.
On Crawley's clay, check that a soakaway will actually work before relying on one.
Dropped kerbs
In Crawley the highway authority is West Sussex County Council. You need a vehicle crossover licence before any work. At the time of writing the council lists a £200 assessment fee and a £287 construction licence, and the contractor you choose applies for the construction licence. Your borough council may also need to give planning permission, especially on main roads.
Horley is in Surrey, so dropped kerbs there go through Surrey County Council instead.
Which council for planning?
| Area | Planning |
|---|---|
| Crawley neighbourhoods | Crawley Borough Council |
| Kilnwood Vale, Rusper | Horsham District Council |
| Pease Pottage, Crawley Down, Copthorne | Mid Sussex District Council |
| Horley | Reigate and Banstead Borough Council |
Open plan estates and covenants
Many Crawley estates have open plan front gardens, and some deeds restrict changes to the front. Check before removing a lawn or building a wall.
Council tenants
If you rent from Crawley Borough Council, you need written permission from your Crawley Homes area surveyor before any driveway or dropped kerb work.
Conservation areas
Crawley's conservation areas include Ifield Village, the High Street, Brighton Road, Worth and Hazelwick Road. Removing a front wall or hedge there may need permission.
Common questions
Can I park on my front garden without a dropped kerb?
No. Driving over the pavement without a licensed crossover is not allowed.
How long does a dropped kerb take?
Allow several weeks for the assessment and licence before building can start.
Check with: West Sussex County Council · Crawley Borough Council planning