How many sheds can you have in your garden?
Are you dreaming of transforming your outdoor space with multiple sheds? Whether you're planning a workshop, storage area, or garden office, the question of how many sheds you can legally have in your garden is more complex than you might think. From planning permission requirements to practical considerations, there's quite a bit to navigate before you start building your shed empire.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about adding multiple sheds to your garden, including legal requirements, size restrictions, and clever ways to maximise your outdoor space without falling foul of regulations.
Please note this covers UK legislation so if you're planning a garden outside the UK make you research local planning guidance.
Understanding planning permission for garden sheds
The good news is that most garden sheds fall under permitted development rights, meaning you won't need planning permission for many shed projects. However, there are specific rules and limitations that determine how many sheds you can have and where you can place them.
When you don't need planning permission
Under current permitted development rights, you can build sheds without planning permission if they meet these criteria:
Single storey only - No two-storey sheds allowed
Maximum height of 4 metres for dual-pitched roofs or 3 metres for any other roof type
Maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres
No more than 50% of the total garden area covered by outbuildings
At least 2 metres from any boundary if the building is over 2.5 metres high
Not forward of the principal elevation that fronts the highway
The 50% rule is particularly important when considering multiple sheds. This means if your garden is 200 square metres, your sheds and other outbuildings combined cannot exceed 100 square metres in total footprint.
When you will need planning permission
You'll need to apply for planning permission if:
Your combined outbuildings exceed 50% of your total garden area
Any shed is within 2 metres of a boundary and exceeds 2.5 metres in height
You're planning a shed in front of your house
Your property is a listed building or in a conservation area
You live in a national park, area of outstanding natural beauty, or World Heritage Site
How garden size affects your shed options
Your garden size fundamentally determines how many sheds you can accommodate both legally and practically. Let's break this down by typical garden sizes:
Small gardens (Under 100 square metres)
Maximum shed coverage: 50 square metres
Recommended approach: One multi-purpose shed around 3x2 metres
Placement tips: Position against the rear boundary to maximise usable garden space
Medium gardens (100-300 square metres)Â
Maximum shed coverage: 50-150 square metres
Recommended approach: One main storage shed plus a smaller workshop or garden office
Strategic placement: Use corner positions and consider different purposes for each building
Large gardens (Over 300 square metres)
Maximum shed coverage: 150+ square metres
Recommended approach: Three or more sheds for different purposes (storage, workshop, office, hobby space)
Design considerations: Create zones within your garden for different activities
Practical considerations for multiple sheds
Beyond legal requirements, several practical factors influence how many sheds work well in your garden.
Access and pathways
Each shed needs practical access for both construction and ongoing use. Consider:
Minimum pathway width: 1.2 metres for wheelbarrow access
Construction access: Larger machinery may need wider routes
Winter access: Ensure paths remain usable in wet conditions
Emergency access: Keep routes clear for safety
Utilities and services
Multiple sheds may require various utilities:
Electricity supply: Each powered shed needs appropriate wiring
Water connections: Useful for workshops or greenhouse-style sheds
Drainage considerations: Prevent water pooling around buildings
Internet connectivity: Essential for garden offices
Maintenance requirements
More sheds mean more upkeep:
Annual treatments: Wooden sheds need regular preservation
Roof maintenance: Check and clear gutters regularly
Ventilation: Prevent condensation and damp issues
Security: More buildings mean more potential entry points
Popular multi-shed configurations
Here are some tried-and-tested approaches to incorporating multiple sheds successfully:
The workshop and storage combination
Perfect for DIY enthusiasts:
Main workshop: 4x3 metres with workbench and tool storage
General storage shed: 2x2 metres for garden equipment and seasonal items
Total footprint: 18 square metres
The home office setup
Ideal for remote workers:
Garden office: 3x2.5 metres with insulation and electrics
Storage shed: 2x1.5 metres for office supplies and archives
Total footprint: 10.5 square metres
The hobby haven
Great for craft enthusiasts:
Craft workshop: 3x3 metres with good lighting
Storage shed: 2x2 metres for materials and supplies
Small greenhouse: 2x1.5 metres for plant propagation
Total footprint: 16 square metres
Maximising your shed space efficiently
Smart design choices help you get more functionality from fewer buildings:
Vertical storage solutions
Make the most of height restrictions:
- Tall shelving units: Use the full 2.5-metre eaves height
- Loft storage areas: Add mezzanine levels for lightweight items
- Wall-mounted systems: Keep floor space clear for larger items
Multi-purpose designs
Design sheds that serve multiple functions:
- Workshop-office combinations: Separate areas within one building
- Storage-potting shed hybrids: Combine garden storage with growing space
- Seasonal flexibility: Adaptable spaces that change use throughout the year
Connecting structures
Consider linking sheds with covered walkways or arches:
- Weather protection: Move between buildings in comfort
- Additional storage: Covered areas for bikes and outdoor equipment
- Garden features: Integrate structures into landscape design
Neighbour considerations and best practices
Multiple sheds can affect your relationship with neighbours, so consider:
Visual impact
- Screening options: Use fencing, trellises or hedging to reduce visual impact
- Colour coordination: Choose colours that blend with surroundings
- Height management: Keep buildings as low as practical
- Positioning: Avoid blocking neighbours' views or light
Noise considerations
- Workshop activities: Be mindful of power tool use and timing
- Construction noise: Inform neighbours of building schedules
- Access routes: Minimise disturbance from regular shed use
Boundary issues
- Accurate measurements: Ensure compliance with 2-metre boundary rules
- Shared boundaries: Discuss plans with neighbours beforehand
- Foundation impact: Avoid affecting neighbouring property drainage
Cost considerations for multiple sheds
Budget planning becomes crucial when adding several sheds:
Building Costs
- Economy storage: £300-800 for basic storage
- Workshop quality: £800-2,000 for robust buildings
- Insulated and weatherproofed: £2,000-4,000 for year-round use
Ongoing expenses
- Insurance: Additional buildings may affect home insurance
- Maintenance: Annual treatments and repairs
- Utilities: Electricity and water connections
- Council tax: Large or office-use sheds might affect property valuation
Future-proofing your shed plans
Think long-term when planning multiple sheds:
Changing needs
- Family changes: Growing families may need different storage solutions
- Career developments: Home working requirements might evolve
- Hobby evolution: Interests and activities change over time
- Mobility considerations: Plan for potential accessibility needs
- Property Value Impact
- Well-planned outbuildings can add value:
- Quality construction: Invest in buildings that last
- Versatile designs: Create spaces that appeal to future buyers
- Professional appearance: Maintain high standards throughout
- Planning compliance: Ensure all buildings meet current regulations
Common mistakes to avoid
Learn from others' experiences:
Planning oversights
- Inadequate research: Always check local planning requirements
- Boundary miscalculations: Measure twice, build once
- Utility planning: Consider power and water needs early
- Access planning: Don't forget about getting materials to site
Design problems
- Insufficient ventilation: Prevent condensation and damp issues
- Poor door placement: Consider prevailing winds and access routes
- Inadequate foundations: Ensure buildings remain level and stable
- Security lapses: Plan for adequate locks and alarm systems
Making your multi-shed dream reality
With proper planning, multiple sheds can transform your garden into a highly functional outdoor space. Start by:
- Measuring your garden accurately and calculating the 50% limit
- Identifying your specific needs and prioritising shed functions
- Researching local regulations and checking with your council if uncertain
- Creating a master plan that considers access, utilities, and aesthetics
- Building in phases to spread costs and learn from each project
Remember, the key to successful multiple shed ownership lies in thoughtful planning, quality construction, and ongoing maintenance. Whether you're creating a workshop paradise or simply need more storage space, understanding the regulations and best practices ensures your garden shed project enhances both your property and your lifestyle.
Ready to start planning your multi-shed garden transformation?
Consider consulting with a local planning expert or architect to ensure your ambitious shed plans comply with all regulations while maximising your garden's potential. Or just pop into your local Dobbies where our garden living experts will be happy to help and advise you.