Garden Room Planning Permission Guide
When exploring garden room manufacturers' websites, you’ll often see "Planning Permission Not Required" prominently displayed. While it's true that in many cases you can build a garden room without needing planning permission from your local authority, this isn’t always the case.
Instead of applying for planning permission, you can often construct your garden room under Permitted Development rules. However, Permitted Development only applies to certain types of properties.
Your chosen garden room company will provide guidance on planning permission during the design consultation. Nevertheless, as the homeowner, it is ultimately your responsibility to verify your specific situation.
This guide outlines the various factors you need to consider when building a garden room, with each topic linking to a more detailed article.
The First Question You Should Ask Yourself Is, Do I Need Planning Permission to Build a Garden Room?
You may be able to build your garden room under Permitted Development rules, but it is essential to check your specific situation. In the worst-case scenario, you could be required to remove an unauthorised structure.
Whether you need planning permission for your garden room depends on factors such as your location, the intended use of the building, as well as its height and position.
You May Be Able to Build a Garden Room Under the Permitted Development Rules
The majority of garden rooms built each year are constructed under Permitted Development rules. These rules clearly define where different height garden rooms can be positioned and how much of your garden they can occupy.
As you explore various garden room companies, you will notice that many designs have a maximum height of 2.5m. This is because garden rooms up to 2.5m in height offer the greatest flexibility in terms of placement.
However, not all properties have Permitted Development rights—for example, if you live in a flat or maisonette.
If you live in a protected landscape, such as a National Park, the Broads, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a World Heritage Site, or a Listed Building, there are additional rules you need to consider. In these cases, it may still be possible to build a garden room without full planning permission, but you must ensure compliance with these specific regulations.
In Protected Landscapes, There Are Additional Rules to Consider When Building a Garden Room
If you live in a protected landscape, such as a National Park, the Broads, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or a World Heritage Site, there are additional rules to consider when building a garden room. However, by complying with these regulations, you can still construct a garden room under Permitted Development rules.
Planning specialists, R L Planning, explain these extra rules in detail in this guide.
If You Build Under the Permitted Development Rules, Consider a Lawful Development Certificate
If you are able to build your garden room under Permitted Development rules, it is advisable to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. This certificate confirms that your garden room complies with current regulations.
A Lawful Development Certificate not only provides assurance that your build is legal, but it can also be valuable when selling your property, as solicitors representing potential buyers may request it. Additionally, having the certificate can offer peace of mind to your neighbours.
Many garden room companies include organising a Lawful Development Certificate as part of their service. Alternatively, you can apply for it yourself through your Local Authority Planning Department.
Be aware that there is a cost associated with applying for a Lawful Development Certificate.
There Are Specialists in Garden Room Planning Permission
If you're unsure about your planning permission requirements for a garden room, there are specialists available to advise you. Experienced garden room companies will guide you during the design consultation. We emphasise "experienced" because we’ve encountered some garden room builders with only a limited understanding of the rules!
Many garden room manufacturers retain planning specialists to assist their clients. However, you can also engage these planning consultants independently. We include the contact details for several companies that specialise in garden room and annexe projects in this article.
When Running a Business from a Garden Room, Check if You Need Planning Approval
In recent years, the popularity of using garden rooms for business purposes has surged, with many buyers seeking flexible workspaces at the end of their garden. Whether it’s a home office, a beauty studio, or a personal training gym, garden rooms offer a convenient solution for those wanting to work from home without compromising their living space. However, while many garden rooms fall under Permitted Development rights, the intended use of the space may require planning permission depending on the type of business activity you plan to run.
Even if the structure complies with Permitted Development regulations, certain factors, such as increased traffic, frequent visitors, or activities that create noise or disruption, could mean you need to apply for planning approval. It’s essential to check your specific situation to avoid potential issues with neighbours or your Local Authority. The Planning Portal offers valuable guidance on this topic.
Don't Take Chances When Building a Garden Room
Discover the experience of a garden gym buyer who faced conflicting advice from garden room companies regarding planning permission. His story highlights the importance of understanding planning regulations and choosing a reputable company. Learn why following planning rules is crucial and how applying for a Certificate of Lawful Development can provide peace of mind and legal protection for your project.
When Building a Garden Room, You Might Also Need to Consider Building Regulations
While planning permission for your garden room may be your main concern, it's equally important to consider Building Regulations.
Whereas Permitted Development focuses on the height and positioning of a garden room, Building Regulations govern the footprint size and intended use of the building.
If you plan to use your garden room as sleeping accommodation, even occasionally, it must comply with Building Regulations.
Building Regulations clearly define the footprint sizes that require compliance, and you should pay particular attention to these rules if your building is positioned within 1 metre of your garden boundaries.
Not all garden room companies offer specifications that meet Building Regulations. You may need to work with a company that provides bespoke garden rooms or specialises in garden living annexes to ensure your project meets the required standards.
Regardless of the size of your garden room, the electrical system and any plumbing services must comply with Building Regulations.
When Building a Garden Room, It's Wise to Talk to Your Neighbours
Our years of experience tell us that talking to your neighbours before building a garden room can be very helpful, potentially saving you from issues later on.
If you apply for planning permission, your Local Authority will consult your immediate neighbours. Even if you’re building under Permitted Development, it’s a good idea to inform them of your plans.
In our experience, neighbours can become quite concerned about the size and positioning of a garden room, especially in relation to their own garden. They may also worry about being overlooked by windows or about the intended use of the room, particularly regarding potential noise.
Garden room companies are usually very good at estimating how long the installation will take. They can provide a schedule for deliveries and let you know how many vehicles will require parking. Sharing this information with your neighbours can help prevent any inconvenience or frustration during the installation process.