Homeowners in England are being reminded of important but little-known rules when upgrading their driveways. Thousands renovate each year without considering drainage regulations and planning requirements.
SuDS Compliance for Driveways
Under sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) compliance, any new driveway exceeding 5 square metres must be permeable or direct water to a suitable drainage area. This helps prevent flooding and reduces pressure on public drainage networks by allowing rainwater to filter naturally into the ground, unlike conventional asphalt which causes runoff.
Paving specialists Amy Andrews and Andy McLaughlin from RF Paving shared expert advice on their podcast Paving The Way, outlining key considerations for homeowners.
Three Common Driveway Mistakes
1. Thinking Only About Appearance
Many homeowners focus on the final look and treat drainage as an afterthought. Amy Andrews said: "Drainage can actually be quite an issue if not done properly." Andy McLaughlin added: "Certain driveways can be illegal. Anything over five square metres generally needs planning permission."
2. Overlooking What Lies Beneath
Homeowners often treat driveways as a single-layer project. However, the entire system must be permeable. Andy explained: "Your paving itself doesn't need to be permeable, but your paving system does. The jointing compound and sub-base let water through." Amy added: "You've got to plan it from the ground up. If it's draining the wrong way, it's pointless."
3. Forgetting Where Water Will Go
Councils can issue enforcement notices for breaching SuDS regulations. Planning permission is required for driveways over 5sqm using impermeable materials like concrete, asphalt, or porcelain. Andy advised: "Check with the council before doing any work." Amy noted: "All runoff water must run into your own property, not the highway."
