SUSTAINABLE URBAN DRAINAGE (SUDS)

SUSTAINABLE URBAN DRAINAGE

SUDS: PLANNING RULES FOR DRIVEWAYS

In 2008, as a result of an increase in local flooding  specific rules were introduced for householders wanting to pave over their front gardens. If the surface to be covered is more than five square meters, planning permission will be needed for laying traditional, impermeable driveways that do not provide for the water to run to a permeable area.

However, if a new or replacement driveway of any size uses permeable (or porous) surfacing which allows water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving or porous asphalt, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally, planning permission will not be required.

​

For more information regarding the importance of using a permeable surface for front gardens, see the Government Planning Guidelines or the UK Planning Portal.

​

​

OPTIONS FOR MEETING SUSTAINABLE URBAN DRAINAGE RULES  

Methods that Meet Drainage Regulations are:

• Install permeable paving that allows water to soak away through the joints between paving, the water then drains away.

• Install linear drainage channels 

• Ensure water drains into soft garden borders or lawns.

​