Planning to Build a Shed? Know the Rules First

Adding a shed can be a great way to create extra storage or workspace at home. The good news is that in the UK you can often build one without planning permission, provided it meets certain permitted development rules.

However, size, height and location all matter.

Key Rules for Permitted Development

If your shed meets the following conditions, you will usually not need planning permission:

• Size: Floor area must be under 15 square metres.

• Location: It cannot be placed in front of the main front wall of your house.

• Height:

• Up to 4m with a dual-pitched roof

• Up to 3m with other roof types

• 2.5m max height if within 2m of a boundary

• Usage: It cannot be used as living accommodation or for sleeping.

• Coverage: All outbuildings together must cover no more than 50% of the land around the original house.

• Structure: No verandas, balconies, or raised platforms over 30cm high.

Planning Permission vs Building Regulations

Even if planning permission isn’t required, building regulations may still apply depending on the size.

• Under 15m²: Usually no planning permission or building regulations needed.

• 15m² – 30m²: Often allowed under permitted development, but building regulations approval may be required, especially if:

• The structure is within 1m of a boundary, or

• It is not built from non-combustible materials.

Important to Check Locally

Rules can be stricter if your property is in a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or is a listed building. In these cases, additional permissions may apply.

Takeaway: Most standard garden sheds can be built without planning permission, but size, height, and location are key. When in doubt, check with your Local Planning Authority (LPA) before you start building.