Named for Shakespeare’s most famous leading lady, Juliet balconies are incredibly stylish and elegant features. Suitable for a variety of homes, a Juliet balcony is essentially a balustrade fitted to the exterior of a large window or French doors. They are available in a wide array of styles and aesthetics, ranging from highly decorative Victorian metal to frameless glass. Traditionally found in Mediterranean countries, Juliet balconies can increasingly be found on UK homes. This rise is in large part due to their easy installation, relatively low cost and modest impact on the building’s appearance.

Do Juliet balconies require planning permission?

Typically, the answer is no and they can be installed under permitted development rights. However, there are always exceptions.

The main difference between Juliet balconies and other designs is the lack of extending platform for anyone to stand on or place items on. Some models are marketed as being Juliet balconies but do have a very narrow floor space. As this can legally be considered a raised platform, you are more likely to require planning permission.

You are also likely to require planning permission if the property is listed, located in a conservation area or part of a block of flats. In addition, if you are only a leaseholder of the property, you will need to secure the consent of the owner. It’s always worth double checking whether there is anything within the property deeds that prevents any type of alteration being made to the exterior.

In conjunction with installing their Juliet balcony, a lot of people will also plumb for a window replacement or inward-opening French doors. Whilst these changes don’t give you any additional floor space, they do allow for a greater amount of light and fresh air to flood into the room. As part of that work, the window area may need enlarging, which can sometimes require planning permission.

To mitigate against any potential objections, we would recommend that you position the balcony to the rear of the property where it can be seen by fewer people. Remember that you may be required to make such modifications as part of the planning permission process.

Even if your Juliet balcony can be installed under permitted development rights, it is still worthwhile notifying any close neighbours of the work. This will help mitigate against any negative feedback and gives you the opportunity to assuage their worries, particularly any privacy.

If you’re at all unsure as to whether your Juliet balcony plan is covered by permitted development rights, we recommend that you seek advice from your local planning authority.

Juliet balcony regulations

Unsurprisingly given their purpose and location, balconies are a keenly regulated architectural feature. All Glass and Stainless Juliet balconies comply with current UK building regulations but we would always encourage you to double check, whoever you’re buying from. The main regulation to be aware of concerns the required railing height. It must be at least 1100mm high from standing floor level with no gaps wider than 100mm (Part K of the Building Regulations Act 2000).

At Glass and Stainless, we offer easy to install, no maintenance Juliet balconies that can be made bespoke to your needs or bought ‘off-the-shelf’. Get in touch today to discuss your requirements and style options.