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Have your say on the future of local councils in Surrey

Take part in a landmark Government consultation on proposals to replace Surrey's current councils with up to three larger authorities. We support a three unitary approach - Find out more and read our consultation question guide.

Join us at an online or in-person event where you find out more about Local Government Organisation, ask questions and find out how to have your say. 


Weather warning

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms from Friday 18 July and an amber weather warning on Saturday 19 July. Read our advice during severe weather for more information.  


Essential maintenance to our planning services

There will be disruption to our planning services from Thursday 17 July to Saturday 19 July. This is whilst we carry out some essential maintenance. You will not be able to search or comment on a planning application during this time. We apologise for any inconvenience. 

Apply for a house of multiple occupation licence (HMO)

HMOs and planning permission

You may also need planning permission in your HMO. Read more about planning advice. 

Your licence will be limited to one year if you do not have the right planning consent. After getting your HMO licence, you have 12 months to get planning permission. If you fail to do so, you'll need to lower the number of residents in your property.

Bedroom sizes

If planning permission is required, there may be a difference between the minimum bedroom sizes allowed by HMO licensing and the planning service.

  • the smallest bedroom size in a licensable HMO is 6.51m2
  • the smallest bedroom size in a HMO where planning permission is required is 7.5m2

Contact the planning service to see if minimum bedrooms sizes will apply to your HMO.