Side extensions in Dorset
12,387 applications since 1980. 10,449 approved and 1,187 refused. Refused: about 1 in 10 here, about 1 in 7 across the councils we cover.
Last updated 9 November 2026.
Without planning permission
- Single storey, no higher than 4 m
- No wider than half the width of the original house
- Not facing a road
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 | 311 | 193 | 24 |
| 2025 | 382 | 333 | 28 |
| 2024 | 388 | 337 | 30 |
| 2023 | 444 | 385 | 33 |
| 2022 | 536 | 454 | 41 |
| 2021 | 587 | 522 | 34 |
| 2020 | 444 | 387 | 31 |
| 2019 | 472 | 434 | 17 |
| 2018 | 515 | 466 | 33 |
| 2017 | 532 | 461 | 49 |
| 2016 | 500 | 430 | 41 |
| 2015 | 412 | 349 | 44 |
Neighbouring councils
| Council | Approved | Refused | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| BCP | 11,689 | 1,690 | about 1 in 8 |
| Wiltshire | 0 | 0 | none |