- Planning authority
- Hertsmere Borough Council
- Postcodes
- WD6, WD7
- Noon sun, 21 March
- About 38°
- Shadow from a 5 m eaves line
- About 6.3 m
- Planning plan
- Local Plan
- County
- Hertfordshire
How it plays out in Borehamwood
Planning histories across WD6 and WD7 are public, and they are one of the most useful things we check. Earlier decisions on nearby plots show how Hertsmere Borough Council has applied its policies in practice: what was approved, what was refused and why.
We use that history to shape the design and to support the application where similar schemes have succeeded. Where nearby refusals exist, we read the reasons carefully, because they show exactly which issues the council is likely to raise on your plot.
What happens next in Borehamwood
After the free appraisal of your Borehamwood plot, work begins with a measured survey and any specialist reports. We then design the layout, test it against local guidance, prepare the drawings and statements, and, if worthwhile, seek pre-application advice. Once you’ve approved the scheme, we submit the application and manage it through to a decision.
Free plot appraisal
We review the title plan, access, constraints, policy and planning history around your address, then talk it through with you. If the plot looks viable we visit, and tell you plainly whether an application is worth making.
Surveys and design
A measured survey comes first, followed by the specialist surveys the plot needs, such as trees or ecology. The layout is designed around access, privacy, daylight, parking, bins and garden space for both homes.
Submit and manage
We complete the forms, ownership certificate, drawings and statements, pay the fee on your behalf and submit. During consultation we answer officers’ questions, respond to consultees and agree amendments where they help.
Decision and next steps
If permission is granted, we explain every condition and what must happen before work starts. If it’s refused, we review the reasons with you and set out the options: amend and resubmit, appeal, or stop.
Worth checking early
- Permission doesn’t override private rights: covenants, ransom strips, sewer easements and party wall matters still need dealing with separately.
- Conditions can add cost and work before building starts, such as approved drainage details, tree protection or a construction management plan.
- Neighbours have a formal say during consultation, and the council must weigh any planning objections they raise.
Your questions, answered for Borehamwood
Does a garden plot application in Borehamwood need a tree survey?
Often, yes. If trees on or near the plot could be affected, councils usually expect a tree survey showing root protection areas and how they’ll be protected during building. Trees with a Tree Preservation Order, or in a conservation area, need consent or notice before any work, and can shape where the house and drive go.
Can I sell my Borehamwood garden plot once it has planning permission?
Yes. Planning permission stays with the land, so the plot can be sold with it and the buyer can build the approved scheme, subject to any conditions. The plot will need its own title through a transfer of part at HM Land Registry, and any mortgage lender will need to release it. Take advice from a tax adviser before selling.
How long will my Borehamwood garden plot application take?
The statutory period for a minor application, such as one or a few new homes, is 8 weeks from validation, in both England and Wales. Many take longer, and the council may ask you to agree an extension in writing. If no decision is made in time and no extension is agreed, you can appeal for non-determination.
What if my Borehamwood garden application is refused?
You can submit a revised application that addresses the reasons for refusal, appeal within 6 months of the decision date, or decide not to go further. Appeals go to the Planning Inspectorate in England or Planning and Environment Decisions Wales. We review the refusal and the officer’s report with you before recommending a route.
Other options in Borehamwood
- Garden plot option agreement
- Corner and side plots
- Combine gardens with your neighbours
- Large rear gardens
- Tandem and landlocked plots
- Joint venture on your garden plot

