Article 4 Directions - restrictions on permitted development

What is an Article 4 Direction?

An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool under Article 4 of the General Permitted Development Order. It allows the Secretary of State or the Local Planning Authority to remove specific permitted development rights  in a defined area. These rights normally allow certain types of development or changes of use without needing planning permission.

Article 4 Directions cannot restrict changes of use within the same use class under The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987.

Why are Article 4 Directions used?

Local Planning Authorities use Article 4 Directions to help protect the character or appearance of an area. They bring certain types of development under planning control that would otherwise be automatically permitted—such as changes to buildings, land use, or other alterations that may affect the local environment or heritage.

Article 4 Directions do not prevent development. They simply mean that planning permission is required before specific types of work can be carried out.

Do I need planning permission?

If your property is in an area covered by an Article 4 Direction and you want to carry out development that would normally be permitted, you’ll need to apply for planning permission. 

You can view all current Article 4 Direction areas on the Dorset Explorer Planning Public interactive online mapping tool.

If you're unsure whether your proposal needs permission, Dorset Council offers a Permitted Development Enquiry Service. This informal advice can help confirm whether a planning application is required.

The simplest way to apply for permission is online through the Planning Portal. For guidance and submission details, visit Submit a planning application – Dorset Council.

Avoid enforcement action

If you carry out alterations in an Article 4 area without planning permission, the council may take enforcement action. This could include requiring you to reverse the changes and restore property to its original condition - at your own expense.

You can view all current Article 4 Direction areas using the Dorset Explorer – Planning Public.  A list of these areas, along with reference details, is also provided below.