| Activity | Usually |
|---|---|
| Desk work, online sales | Permitted – no planning needed |
| Extra traffic, customers visiting | May need planning |
| Employees on site | May need planning |
| Garage to workshop | Check permitted development |
Source: GOV.UK
Key links
- Planning – Swindon Borough Council
- swindon.gov.uk – Planning
- GOV.UK – working from home
- GOV.UK – Planning permission
When you may not need planning permission
Using your home as a place of work is often allowed without planning permission if it remains "primarily" a home – e.g. no significant increase in traffic, no deliveries or visitors that change the character of the area, no visible business use from outside. Desk work, online sales from existing stock, and similar low-impact activities are usually acceptable. The rules are set nationally; Swindon Borough Council applies them when assessing complaints or applications.
When you might need permission
If your home business creates more traffic, employs people on site, involves customers visiting, or changes the use of the building (e.g. turning a garage into a workshop), you may need planning permission or need to check permitted development. If you're in a leasehold or covenant-controlled property, the lease or covenant may restrict business use – check your documents.
What to do
If unsure, contact Swindon Borough Council’s planning team or request pre-application advice. For insurance and tax, see business insurance for Swindon SMEs and GOV.UK guidance on working from home.
Information correct as of February 2026. Planning rules can change. Check swindon.gov.uk and GOV.UK for current guidance.