What Article 4 changes
An Article 4 direction can remove permitted development rights that would otherwise allow a change from a standard dwellinghouse to a small HMO without a planning application.
Why licensing still matters
Even where planning permission is needed, licensing rules may still apply separately. A property can be lawfully planned for HMO use and still require a mandatory or additional HMO licence before occupation.
Useful checks before you rely on an HMO strategy
- Check whether the council has an Article 4 direction in force for the area.
- Check whether the intended use would trigger mandatory or additional HMO licensing.
- Check whether selective licensing could also apply for an alternative use scenario.
- Record what remains a planning question and what remains a licensing question.
Where this site helps
The site is strongest as a licensing starting point. Use the postcode checker and the relevant council pageto understand the current public licensing picture, then take the planning question to the council's planning pages or adviser where needed.