Article 4 Direction

New planning rules for HMOs in Ribble Valley

Ribble Valley Council has introduced new planning rules to help manage the distribution and quality of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), across the borough. 

The decision, which was approved at the Planning and Development Committee meeting yesterday, 27th August 2026, means that an Article 4 Direction will come into force immediately from today, 28th August 2026. Anyone wanting to turn a regular house into an HMO (for three to six people who aren’t related and share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms) will need to apply for planning permission. This change applies to all areas of the Ribble Valley.  

Before now, these changes could be made without planning permission under ‘permitted development rights’. The new rule removes that automatic right so the council can look more closely at each proposal. Larger HMOs for more than six unrelated people already require planning permission. 

This change will help the council keep track of HMOs, and through our licensing function, make sure they are properly managed, and ensure they meet good living standards.  

It also means future planning policies, like those in the emerging Local Plan, can apply to small HMOs, which have not previously needed planning permission.  

Planning permission can still be granted where proposals are suitable and help meet local housing needs. 

If you want to share your views on this policy, then you can submit your comments until 5pm on Friday 18th September 2026. All comments received by the deadline will be considered before a final decision is made. Submit your views: planning.policy@ribblevalley.gov.uk , or alternatively by post to Planning Policy, Ribble Valley Borough Council, Council Offices, Church Walk, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 2RA.

You can view the full direction and a map of the affected area here or in person at Council Offices, Church Walk, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 2RA, during normal opening hours.