Conservation areas

There are 36 conservation areas in Dumfries and Galloway that have special architectural or historical interest. National and local policies provide extra controls over development and change in these areas.

Search for a conservation area on our planning constraints map

Planning constraints

The usual planning constraints apply in conservation areas. However, planning permission is also needed for other changes including (but not limited to):

• making changes to the exterior of houses, such as windows and doors, stone cleaning, rendering, painting and cladding
• building small extensions or driveways
• carrying out other works to the roof, including adding roof windows, a TV aerial, satellite dish, solar panels or wind turbines
• demolishing any part of a building or wall

Before starting any work, you should always check if you need planning permission.

We have written guidance on how we manage development in conservation areas. Download 'Caring for the built environment – conservation area guidance' from conservation and regeneration documents.

Windows and doors in conservation areas

Specific information is required when seeking permission for works to windows and doors in conservation areas or listed buildings. To view our technical note on windows and doors, go to planning application documents.

Work on trees in conservation areas

If you want to carry out any work to a protected tree in a conservation area, you must apply for permission at least 6 weeks before starting any work.

Further information

There are character appraisals for some conservation areas that have been written and published as supplementary guidance to the Local Development Plan 2. 

The appraisals are used to help make decisions about new proposals and improvements in each conservation area.

Each appraisal describes:

• the conservation area
• the history of its development
• how to keep its special character