Do you need planning permission for a shed?
If you're considering adding a shed to your garden, one of the first questions to address is whether you need planning permission. In the UK, many garden sheds fall under "permitted development," meaning they don't require formal approval. However, specific conditions must be met to ensure compliance, so don’t get caught out.
When do you not need planning permission for a shed?
Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, certain outbuildings, including sheds, are considered permitted development, provided they adhere to the following conditions:
Single storey only: The shed must be a single-storey structure.
Height restrictions:
Maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres.
Maximum overall height of 4 metres for a dual-pitched roof, or 3 metres for any other roof type.
Location relative to boundaries:
If the shed is within 2 metres of a boundary, the entire structure must not exceed 2.5 metres. So, bear in mind if you’re putting it at the edge of your garden.
Positioning on Property:
The shed must not be located forward of the principal elevation of the original house. This means the shed cannot be placed in front of the main front wall of your house (the side facing the street or driveway). It must be positioned behind or at the side of the house, typically in the garden. This rule helps preserve the appearance of the street and prevents large structures from obstructing the front of your property.
No more than 50% of the land around the original house should be covered by additions or other buildings, including the shed.
Usage restrictions:
The shed must not be used for living or sleeping accommodation.
No microwave antenna or similar equipment is permitted.
Designated land considerations:
In areas such as National Parks, the Broads, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and World Heritage Sites, the total area covered by outbuildings more than 20 metres from any wall of the house must not exceed 10 square metres.
When you do need planning permission for a shed?
Even if a shed meets standard size and location limits, planning permission may still be required in the following circumstances:
Use beyond incidental to the dwelling
• Use beyond incidental to the dwelling
• Sheds must be used only for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of the home, such as storage of tools, garden furniture, or bicycles.
• If you plan to use the shed as a home office, gym, or similar space where people spend significant time, this is no longer considered incidental, and planning permission may be required.
• Commercial activities, such as a dog boarding business or kennel, rental of the space to someone else, or for classes/workshops, are also not incidental and almost always require planning permission.
Curtilage of a listed building
If the shed is located within the curtilage of a listed building - that is, the land immediately surrounding a listed property - it falls under stricter controls. Listed building consent may be required in addition to planning permission, even for small sheds, because they could affect the historic or architectural character of the property.
Conservation areas, national parks, and designated land
If your property lies within a conservation area, National Park, or other protected land, planning rules are stricter, and you may need permission for structures that would otherwise be permitted.
Article 4 Directions
Local councils can remove permitted development rights in specific areas using an Article 4 Direction. In these areas, even small sheds that normally do not require permission may need full planning approval. Article 4 Directions are often applied in conservation areas to preserve the character and appearance of the neighbourhood.
Building regulations approval
In addition to planning permission, building regulations approval may be required for sheds, particularly if they involve structural work, fire safety, or drainage.
Sheds with a floor area under 15 square metres and no sleeping accommodation typically do not require approval.
Sheds between 15 and 30 square metres may still not require approval if they are at least 1 metre from any boundary or constructed substantially from non-combustible materials.
Local authority considerations
Local councils may have additional requirements or restrictions, so it is always advisable to consult your local planning authority before ordering your shed or starting any construction work. This ensures your shed complies with all relevant regulations (and helps you avoid fines and other problems).
While many garden sheds do not require planning permission, it is essential to ensure your shed meets all size, location, and usage conditions. Commercial use, proximity to listed buildings, conservation areas, and local Article 4 Directions may all require formal approval. Always check with your local planning authority if you are unsure.
Tips for Installing a Shed Without Planning Issues
To avoid unnecessary complications, here are some practical tips for choosing and installing your shed:
- Check the measurements twice
Always measure your garden space carefully and compare it with the shed’s height and footprint. Staying within the 2.5-metre eaves and roof height limits will help keep your shed under permitted development.
- Keep it behind the house
Position your shed behind or to the side of your home, never in front of the main front wall. This simple step avoids one of the most common planning permission pitfalls.
- Mind the boundaries
If you plan to place your shed close to a boundary (fence, hedge, or wall), make sure it is no higher than 2.5 metres in total. Otherwise, you may need permission.
- Choose materials carefully
In conservation areas or when close to neighbouring properties, using high-quality, attractive materials (such as timber sheds with natural finishes) will reduce the likelihood of objections.
- Avoid business use
Keep your shed strictly for personal use. Running any type of business, from dog boarding to use as a full-time office, could trigger planning requirements.
- Consult your local authority early
A quick call or email to your planning department can prevent problems later. Many councils provide free pre-application advice on small outbuildings.
- Consider building regulations
Even if your shed is exempt from planning, check whether building regulations apply - particularly if it’s larger than 15 square metres or near a property boundary.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your shed with peace of mind, knowing it complies with planning law and will not cause issues in the future.
So, ready to start exploring options for a new shed? Take a look at our range of garden sheds, with options available both for DIY enthusiasts, and with build and installation services included as part of delivery. Need help deciding which shed is for you? Pop into your local Dobbies where our garden living experts will be happy to help and advise you.