Planning permission requirements
This guidance explains what we look at when we assess planning applications for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in the borough, and what you should submit with your application.
It is intended for applicants, agents and landlords who are considering converting a dwelling (Use Class C3) to a small HMO (Use Class C4, 3–6 occupants).
Requirements
Due to Article 4 Directions, in many parts of the borough, you cannot rely on permitted development rights to change a dwelling to a small HMO.
Planning permission is needed to change a C3 dwelling to a C4 HMO.
- In Perivale ward, this applies from 30 October 2024 (immediate Article 4 Direction)
- Across the rest of the borough (excluding Perivale and the OPDC area, which are covered by separate directions), planning permission is needed from 14 November 2025
The Article 4 Directions allow the council to consider each proposal on a case-by-case basis. Planning permission is separate from HMO licensing. Most HMOs will also require a licence from the council’s licensing team.