Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension in East Dunbartonshire?
If you're planning an extension in Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs, Bearsden, Milngavie or anywhere else in East Dunbartonshire, one of the first things you need to understand is whether you need planning permission.
The short answer: it depends on the size and position of what you're building.
Permitted Development — What You Can Build Without Planning Permission
In Scotland, "permitted development rights" allow homeowners to make certain changes to their property without needing to apply for planning permission. For house extensions, the key rules (as of 2026) are:
The extension must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 metres (for terraced/semi-detached) or 4 metres (for detached houses)
The total ground area covered by extensions and outbuildings must not exceed 50% of the original garden
The extension must not be higher than the existing roof
The extension must not be built forward of the principal elevation (the front of the house)
Materials should be similar in appearance to the existing house
If your extension falls within these limits, you likely don't need planning permission.
However, you should always check with East Dunbartonshire Council before proceeding. Permitted development rights can be removed or restricted in certain areas (e.g., conservation areas).
Building Warrant — You Almost Certainly Need This
Even if you don't need planning permission, you will almost certainly need a building warrant. This is separate from planning permission and is required for virtually all structural building work in Scotland.
A building warrant confirms that your extension meets Scottish building regulations for:
Structural safety
Fire safety
Energy efficiency
Accessibility
Drainage and ventilation
You apply for a building warrant through East Dunbartonshire Council's Building Standards department. You'll need architectural drawings and structural calculations.
When You DO Need Planning Permission
You'll need to apply for planning permission if:
Your extension exceeds the permitted development size limits
Your property is in a conservation area (parts of Kirkintilloch, Milngavie and Bearsden have conservation areas)
Your property is a listed building
Your permitted development rights have been removed by a condition on the original planning permission
You want to build a balcony or raised platform
The Process
Check your permitted development rights — we can advise on this at a free site visit
Engage an architect to produce drawings — we work with local architects who know East Dunbartonshire Council's requirements
Submit building warrant application (and planning application if needed)
Wait for approval — building warrants typically take 4-8 weeks
Build — we manage the full construction programme
Completion certificate — issued by Building Standards once the work is inspected and approved
How MKS Construction Can Help
We're based in Kirkintilloch and work across East Dunbartonshire regularly. We know the local planning landscape and can advise you on what's possible before you spend money on architectural drawings.
Our director Mark Kennedy is a qualified Quantity Surveyor with experience navigating planning and building warrant processes. We can manage the entire process for you — from initial advice through to completion certificate.
Get Free Advice
Call 0141 459 1659 or email info@mksconstruction.co.uk to arrange a free site visit. We'll assess your property, discuss your plans, and advise on the planning and building warrant requirements.