Listed Building Rules in Exeter: What You CAN and CAN’T Do to Your Home
Understanding Exeter City Council’s Conservation Rules & Listed Building Permissions
If you own a home in Exeter — especially a period property in one of the city’s conservation areas — it’s important to know what you can and can’t do before you start any work. This includes joinery repairs, sash window replacement, external alterations, or structural changes.
In many cases, making changes without the right approvals can lead to enforcement action, costly re-instatement, or delays to your project.
Below is a friendly guide to help you understand the rules and the best way to prepare before contacting us or any tradesperson.
What is a Conservation Area?
Exeter has multiple conservation areas — places identified as having special architectural or historic interest that is worthy of preservation. Being in a conservation area means:
✔ Changes to your property could require planning permission
✔ Even small alterations that look “minor” might need approval
✔ Protection applies to things like windows, doors, porches, roofs, and external paint colours
We recommend bookmarking the Exeter City Council map and listed buildings register (we’ll add the link below) so you can check your property’s status.
What is a Listed Building?
A listed building is a structure officially recognised by Historic England as being of national importance due to its architectural or historic value.
If your property is listed, you are legally required to apply for:
Listed Building Consent – for almost any alteration that affects the character of the building
This applies to:
Replacing sash windows
Changing external doors
Removing or adding timber features
Repairing timber frames
Altering decorative details
Even internal changes can need consent if they impact historic fabric.
What You Cannot Do Without Permission
Here are common jobs that usually cannot be done without prior consent:
❌ Replacing timber sash windows with a different style
❌ Painting exterior wood features a different colour
❌ Removing original mouldings or joinery elements
❌ Replacing traditional doors with modern unsympathetic ones
❌ Adding new external joinery that changes appearance
Even repairing timber can require approval if it involves replacing material, not just conserving it.
What You CAN Do Without Permission
There are some things that don’t usually need formal consent — but you must prove that the change does not alter the building’s character:
✔ Routine maintenance done “like-for-like”
✔ Matching timber sash window repairs
✔ Repainting in the same existing colour
✔ Fixing existing features using original joinery techniques
Still unsure? Always check with the council first — it’s better to be safe.
Best Practice Before You Call a Tradesperson
Before contacting us (or any tradesman), we recommend:
1 - Check Planning Portal First
Use Exeter City Council’s online map and listed buildings list to confirm:
✔ Is your property in a conservation area?
✔ Is it a listed building under statutory protection?
(You can insert your link here)
2 - Speak to the Conservation Officer
A quick call to the council’s Conservation Officer can save weeks of complications.
They can advise:
✔ Whether consent is needed
✔ What type of application is required
✔ Supporting documents you’ll need
3 - Gather Good Photographs & Notes
Take photos of:
The whole elevation
Close-ups of the area you want to work on
Any damage or rot (if applicable)
This helps both the council and tradespeople assess the job properly.
How Permission Works (Quick Overview)
➤ Planning Permission
Needed for visible external alterations in conservation areas.
➤ Listed Building Consent
Needed for all work affecting a listed property’s character.
➤ Permitted Development
Some very minor work may fall under this — but don’t assume. Always check first.
Why This Matters
Getting these permissions sorted before work starts:
✔ Avoids costly re-instatement directions
✔ Prevents project delays
✔ Saves you money in the long run
✔ Ensures heritage features are preserved
✔ Helps your home retain its value
As joinery specialists, we only undertake works that are lawful and approved. If permission is needed, sorting it first protects you and us.
Final Tip
If permission IS required, it doesn’t mean your project can’t go ahead — it just means you’re doing the right thing.
Submitting applications early gives you:
Faster results
An official record of approval
Clear guidelines for your tradesperson
Helpful Link
Exeter City Council Conservation Areas & Listed Buildings Map
If you have questions after reviewing your council requirements, we’re here to help — whether you’re planning repairs, upgrades, or a full restoration. Contact us
