Walsall Council has brought in new planning controls for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to keep communities balanced and improve housing standards across the borough.
The council approved an Article 4 Direction after public consultation and a cabinet meeting.
The Article 4 Direction removes the permitted development rights that previously allowed landlords to turn properties into smaller HMOs, homes for three to six unrelated people sharing amenities, without planning permission.
This means anyone wanting to convert a property into an HMO in Walsall now needs to apply for planning permission, no matter the size of the HMO.
The aim is to give the council more control over where HMOs are set up and to make sure they are managed properly.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Associate Leader of Walsall Council, said: “HMOs have a role to play in providing much-needed housing options across the borough.
“However, it’s vital that they are developed and managed in a way that supports sustainable and well-balanced communities.
“Poorly managed HMOs can lead to a range of issues such as increased fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour, and waste accumulation.”
Andrew added: “These new planning controls allow us to take a more strategic approach, helping to protect neighbourhoods while ensuring quality housing standards are maintained.”
