Do I Need Planning Permission for a Disabled Access Ramp?

Sophie Hart
May 1
2 min read

Updated: Jun 25

Adding a disabled access ramp to your property can be life-changing for the people who use it - but if you're considering installing one, you might be wondering: do I need planning permission?

The answer depends on a few factors, including your type of property, its location, and how the ramp will be constructed. In this article, we'll explain the key things you need to know before starting a ramp installation project.

People pointing to building plans prior to planning permission — Don’t worry - not all ramps need this! We can help you figure out if planning permission is required.

When Planning Permission is Not Usually Required for Disabled Access Ramps

In most cases, installing a ramp at a private residential property does not require planning permission, especially when:

The ramp is for private, domestic use
It is constructed with a gentle slope (ideally no more than 1:12 gradient)
It is under 300mm in height above ground level
It does not significantly alter the external appearance of the building

Local authorities tend to be supportive of accessibility improvements, especially when they are clearly in the interests of the occupant's safety and mobility.

When You Might Need Planning Permission

You may need to apply for planning permission if:

The property is listed or in a conservation area
The ramp would involve major alteration to the front elevation
It includes high or visually intrusive handrails or fencing
It affects drainage, landscaping or existing structures

In these cases, it's best to check with your local planning authority. Rise Ramps can help guide you through this process and, where needed, provide drawings and specification documents for your application.

Building Regulations Still Apply

Even if you don't need planning permission, your ramp will likely need to meet UK Building Regulations, especially Part M, which covers access to and use of buildings. This includes:

Suitable ramp gradient (typically 1:15 to 1:20)
Minimum widths for wheelchair access
Non-slip surfaces
Landings at the top and bottom of the ramp

Rise Ramps designs every installation to be compliant with these regulations as standard.

What About Public or Commercial Buildings?

If you're installing a ramp at a school, office, healthcare setting or public venue, planning permission is more likely to be required - especially if it's a permanent structure.

As a rule of thumb: if the building has regular public access, you'll need to follow both planning and accessibility compliance routes. Our team has extensive experience supporting such applications.

How Rise Ramps Can Help

We don’t just supply and install beautiful, compliant ramps - we also:

Offer free consultations to assess if planning permission is likely
Provide technical drawings and supporting documents for applications
Design ramps to be as discreet and sympathetic to their setting as possible

Whether you're a homeowner looking to future-proof your property, or managing access improvements to a listed building, we’re here to help.

Ready to discuss your project?