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Do I need planning permission for a stove?

Installing a stove inside a house does not require planning permission. Any new external flue is treated as a chimney under the exemption rules, and the installation must meet Part J of the building regulations and solid fuel regulations.

The internal installation is a building regulations matter rather than a planning one. Hearth construction, clearances to combustible material, flue sizing and combustion air supply all matter for safety and insurance.

Solid fuel regulations restrict the sale of certain fuels nationwide, and smoky coal is banned. Choosing a low-emission appliance and dry fuel matters for both compliance and performance.

Get right at installation

  • Correct flue liner and termination
  • Non-combustible hearth of adequate size
  • Ventilation to the room sized for the appliance
  • Carbon monoxide alarm installed
  • Installer certification and appliance documentation retained

Sources

Last reviewed 28 August 2026. General information only — not legal or planning advice.

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