Understanding Planning Permissions for Garden Rooms
Designing a garden room is an exciting way to create your own bespoke space, whether it’s for relaxing, working, or pursuing your hobbies. With our all-inclusive approach to design, you can tailor every detail to your requirements. Before you get started, it’s important to understand the planning permissions and regulations that might apply.
This FAQ will guide you through the essentials so you can confidently move forward with your garden room project, knowing exactly what’s needed to stay within the rules.
1. Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room?
In most cases, planning permission is not required for a garden room, as it can fall under permitted development rights. However, this depends on factors such as the size, height, proximity to boundaries and the area you live in. For example, if your garden room exceeds 2.5m in height and is within 2 metres of a boundary, planning permission may be needed.
2. What Are the Planning Restrictions for a Garden Room?
Planning restrictions typically revolve around the size and placement of the garden room. You cannot use it as a separate dwelling, and it must not take up more than 50% of the land surrounding the original house. Additionally, it must not exceed a height of 2.5m when placed near a boundary.
3. What Are the Building Regulations for Garden Rooms?
Building regulations may apply if your garden room exceeds 15 square metres or is used as sleeping accommodation. If it’s under this size and used for purposes such as an office or storage, building regulations are generally not required. However, if you plan to install plumbing or electrics, some regulations may apply for safety.
4. What is the Maximum Garden Room Size Without Planning Permission?
Without planning permission, your garden room must not exceed 2.5 metres in height if placed within 2 metres of a boundary. The total size must also not cover more than 50% of the land surrounding your home. If you are planning for a garden room within these boundaries you won’t need planning permission.
5. What is Permitted Development for Garden Rooms?
Permitted development rights allow you to build a garden room without the need for formal planning permission, provided it meets certain criteria. These include restrictions on height (no taller than 4 metres for a dual-pitched roof), usage (not as a separate dwelling), and placement (not in front of the main house).
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