Drainage and the 5 square metre rule
Paving a front garden does not need planning permission if the surface is permeable, or if rainwater runs to a lawn, border or soakaway within your property. A non-permeable surface over 5 square metres that does neither needs permission. Either way, water from your drive must not run onto the pavement or road.
Which council decides?
| Area | Planning |
|---|---|
| Eastbourne town, including Meads, Old Town, Hampden Park, Langney and Sovereign Harbour | Eastbourne Borough Council |
| Polegate, Willingdon, Stone Cross, Westham, Pevensey Bay | Wealden District Council |
| East Dean, Friston, Jevington | South Downs National Park Authority |
Conservation areas and Article 4
Eastbourne has 12 conservation areas. Taking down a front boundary wall to make a parking space can need permission there, and flint walls are an important part of streets in Old Town and Meads. In Park Close, an Article 4 direction removes normal rights for front garden changes and boundary walls, gates and fences, so you need to apply first. Devonshire Meads also has an Article 4 direction. Check with the council if you live in either.
Dropped kerbs in Eastbourne
All of Eastbourne, Polegate and Willingdon is in East Sussex, so dropped kerbs (vehicle crossovers) are licensed by East Sussex Highways for East Sussex County Council, not the borough council. You need a licence before any work, and the crossing must be built by an approved contractor.
Parking bays: much of central Eastbourne, including parts of Upperton, Meads and the town centre, has controlled parking. If a parking bay is outside your house, the council can only give a licence in principle. The bay has to be changed through a Traffic Regulation Order in the parking review, which runs every 14 to 16 months and includes a public consultation. Allow plenty of time.
Common questions
Can I park on my front garden without a dropped kerb?
No. Driving over the pavement without a licensed crossing is not allowed and can damage pipes and cables under it.
Is my house in a conservation area?
Check the Eastbourne Borough Council conservation area maps, or ask the planning team.
Check with: East Sussex Highways · Lewes and Eastbourne Councils · Wealden District Council · South Downs National Park