Overview
- National coverage on Thursday, June 11, 2026, reminded homeowners that SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) rules apply to driveway work and carry legal and practical consequences.
- Under SuDS guidance, any new driveway larger than 5 square metres must be permeable or must channel water to an appropriate soakaway or drainage area to avoid adding flood risk.
- Installing impermeable materials such as concrete, asphalt or non-porous slabs usually means you must seek planning permission because the surface can send runoff into public drains or onto the highway.
- Compliance is about the whole paving system: non-porous slabs can be used if jointing compounds and the sub-base are built to let water through and direct it correctly.
- Homeowners are urged to check proposals with their local council before work begins and to design drainage from the ground up, because incorrect or misdirected drainage can be ineffective and trigger council enforcement notices.