Guide for landlords
Tameside HMO Article 4 Direction explained
What the borough wide Article 4 Direction means for landlords who want to create or run a house share in Tameside.
Do I need planning permission for an HMO in Tameside?
Usually, yes. Since 2 October 2025 an Article 4 Direction covers the whole of Tameside, so turning a family home into a small HMO for three to six unrelated people needs planning permission first. Large HMOs for seven or more people already needed it. An HMO licence is a separate requirement.
What changedFrom 2 October 2025, Tameside Council removed the permitted development right to change a family home (use class C3) into a small HMO (use class C4) anywhere in the borough.
What it meansTurning a house into a shared home for three to six unrelated people now needs planning permission first.
Large HMOsHouses shared by seven or more people already needed planning permission, and still do.
Existing HMOsA house already lawfully used as a small HMO before the direction came in can usually carry on, but you should keep evidence of when that use started.
Licensing is separatePlanning permission does not replace an HMO licence. HMOs with five or more people from two or more households still need a mandatory licence.
What the council looks atThe number of HMOs nearby, room sizes, parking, bins and the effect on neighbours.
How we help
Planning, building and managing
- Check whether a property is likely to get permission
- Design layouts that meet space standards
- Build the conversion through North Point Building Services
- License, let and manage it
A summary, not legal advice. Check the current position on the Tameside Council planning pages before you buy or convert.
Last reviewed 22 October 2026 by the North Point team