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The 45 Degree Code

In order to safeguard the amenity of occupiers of neighbouring dwellings and in order to promote the provision of a satisfactory level of habitable accommodation within the existing house, the council will operate a 45 degree code.

This relates to the impact of an extension on windows to habitable rooms in adjoining dwellings. Habitable rooms include living room, lounge, , sitting room, playroom, bedroom, study, dining room, conservatory and kitchens.

Extensions, which would breach the 45 degree code, will not normally be allowed, except for single-storey extensions where the length of the extension would not exceed 3.5 meters in length as measured from the nearest window in the adjoining dwelling.

Application of the 45 degree code

The measurement is taken from the centre of the windowsill level on the ground floor for single storey extensions and the quarter point of the windowsill for two or more storey extensions.

On the drawings adjacent, X marks the mid-point and quarter-point at windowsill level of the nearest habitable room window in the adjoining house.

C is the point of the extension, which is closest to the common boundary with the adjoining property.

A marks the position where a horizontal line drawn across the base of the nearest habitable room window in the adjoining house would meet the side of the proposed extension. the angle between X-C and X-A should be at most 45 degrees, as measured on the plan, within the bay or bow, window in line with the plane of the rear extension.

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Regeneration and Performance
Planning and Building Control
Civic Centre
Darwall Street
Walsall
WS1 1DG

Email planningservices@walsall.gov.uk
Telephone (01922) 652452
Textphone 0845 111 2910
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Fax (01922) 623234

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Christmas and New Year 2008 opening times

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  • Wednesday 24 December: closed
  • Thursday 25 December: closed
  • Friday 26 December: closed
  • Monday 29 December: 8.45am – 5.15pm
  • Tuesday 30 December: 8.45am – 5.15pm
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  • Friday 2 January: 8.45am – 4.45pm

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