Loft conversions and dormers in Dorset
11,060 applications since 1980. 9,178 approved and 1,193 refused. Refused: about 1 in 9 here, about 1 in 6 across the councils we cover.
Last updated 9 November 2026.
Without planning permission
- Up to 40 cubic metres of extra roof space on a terrace, 50 on a semi or detached house
- Not on the roof slope facing a road, and no higher than the existing roof
- Materials similar in appearance, set back about 0.2 m from the eaves, and side windows obscure-glazed
England, houses only. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas and Article 4 directions change this. The full rules.
Year by year
| Year | Applications | Approved | Refused |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 221 | 136 | 18 |
| 2025 | 281 | 242 | 25 |
| 2024 | 284 | 250 | 17 |
| 2023 | 320 | 265 | 28 |
| 2022 | 388 | 322 | 42 |
| 2021 | 404 | 324 | 40 |
| 2020 | 328 | 297 | 16 |
| 2019 | 287 | 258 | 16 |
| 2018 | 366 | 313 | 34 |
| 2017 | 369 | 316 | 34 |
| 2016 | 336 | 274 | 36 |
| 2015 | 315 | 264 | 34 |
Neighbouring councils
| Council | Approved | Refused | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| BCP | 11,912 | 2,252 | about 1 in 6 |
| Wiltshire | 0 | 0 | none |