4 active directions in our records · 2 HMO-related
An Article 4 direction removes specified permitted development rights in a defined area,
so that changes which would normally be automatic instead need a full planning application.
For HMOs this usually means removing the right to convert a home (use class C3) to a small
HMO (C4).
The directions below for Hounslow are sourced from
planning.data.gov.uk;
coverage varies by council, so always verify with the local planning authority before relying on it.
Removes permitted development rights for change of use from C3 to C4 (small HMO) across the London Borough of Hounslow. Verify with Hounslow Council.
Dwellinghouses (C3) to small HMOs (C4) - borough-wide Article 4 Direction HMOsince 2023
On 6 July 2022, Hounslow Council gave notice of the making of a non-immediate Article 4 Direction to remove permitted development rights for change of use from a dwellinghouse (C3) to a house in multiple occupancy (C4). The notice applies to the entire borough (with the exception of open land, industrial areas, Chiswi…
Other Article 4 directions in Hounslow
Article 4(2) directions for Bedford Park and Gunnersbury Conservation areas since 2001
Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, the Council has made 'Article 4 directions' which cover all properties in the Bedford Park and Gunnersbury Park conservation areas. The effect of the directions (in addition to standard conservation area controls) is that owners also need …
Change of use or development that would result in new dwellings (Class MA/ZA) since 2025
On 4 March 2025, the Council confirmed an Article 4 direction that removes certain permitted development rights that would result in new dwellings. The effect of this is to require planning permission for specified forms of development within the area where the direction applies
The HMO angle in Hounslow
Article 4 is only half the HMO picture — a scheme can be permitted-development-free and
still need a licence. See
HMO licensing in Hounslow
for the mandatory licence threshold, any additional or selective schemes in our records, and
the statutory minimum room sizes, or the
full Hounslow planning profile.
