What is an Article 4 direction?

A planning rule that removes the automatic right to turn a family home into a small shared house.

Normally converting a C3 dwelling into a C4 small HMO for three to six people is permitted development and needs no planning application. An Article 4 direction switches that off in a designated area, so you have to apply.

Councils use them where student or shared housing has concentrated. If you are buying to convert, check for an Article 4 direction before you exchange, because it can turn a straightforward plan into a refused application.