Grade II property, do I need permission for a catio?

[chilliheeler123]

My cats keep getting attacked by an awful cat down the road, we already have cat proof fencing but one of my cats can escape it, and the bully cat has also worked out how to climb over the top and into my garden. Keeping them indoors full-time makes them miserable, and they end up squabbling amongst themselves.

The only option I can think of to keep my cats safe but still allow them adequate outdoor access is a large-ish catio, but would this need to be agreed by the planning authority as it might ‘change the character of the property’, even as a non-permanent structure? There is a lot of conflicting advice online!

I think if made in a non permanent fashion ie by wood frame and base not by brick and solid base then you shouldn't have an issue that's enforceable.

I would just do it. If it's not a permanent structure then it's worth the risk as it prevents your cats from being confined indoors, which would be incredibly stressful for them.

Maybe you can get free advice from your planning authority. Probably better than building it and then having a neighbour report you.

Agreed. You’ll enter a world of bureaucracy if you contact the planning dept, just do ir

I agree. Just do it. You can always take it down if needed as it won't be a perminant structure.

I think it would need LBC.
Doing without permission could put you into all sorts of bother. It is a criminal offence and you risk a fine or even imprisonment!

Can you do it without attaching it to any part of the existing building?
Have you got an existing patio?