Glossary
Article 4 direction
An Article 4 direction is a local planning order that removes selected permitted development rights in a defined area. Councils often use them in conservation areas to control changes to roofs, windows, front boundaries and other features.
Where an Article 4 applies, work that would otherwise be PD needs a planning application.
Article 4 is an England (and similar Wales) GPDO concept. Scotland and Northern Ireland use different directions and orders to withdraw permitted rights.
Official source: When is permission required? (Planning Practice Guidance). Checked 27 October 2026.