Do you require planning permission for an outbuilding or summer house?
Introduction
Do you require planning permission for an outbuilding or summer house? If you are planning to add an outbuilding or summer house to your property, you might be wondering whether you need planning permission or not. The rules and regulations surrounding outbuildings and summer houses can be confusing, but it is crucial to understand them before starting any construction work. In this blog post, we will discuss whether you require planning permission for an outbuilding or summer house.
Outbuildings and Planning Permission
Outbuildings are defined as standalone structures that are not attached to the main house. Examples of outbuildings include sheds, garages, and greenhouses. If your proposed outbuilding falls under certain criteria, you may not require planning permission. However, if your outbuilding exceeds these criteria, you will need to apply for planning permission.
According to UK guidelines, an outbuilding is considered permitted development and does not require planning permission if:
It is located at the back of your property
It does not cover more than half of your garden
It is not taller than 4 metres (or 2.5 metres if it is within 2 metres of a boundary)
It does not have a balcony, veranda, or raised platform
It is not used as a living accommodation
If your proposed outbuilding does not meet these criteria, you will need to apply for planning permission.
Summer Houses and Planning Permission
Summer houses are similar to outbuildings, but they are typically used for leisure purposes rather than storage. Like outbuildings, summer houses may not require planning permission if they fall under certain criteria.
According to UK guidelines, a summer house is considered permitted development and does not require planning permission if:
It is no more than 50% of the area around the original house
It is not used for sleeping accommodation
It does not exceed 2.5 metres in height
It is not located at the front of the property
If your proposed summer house does not meet these criteria, you will need to apply for planning permission.
Conclusion
Adding an outbuilding or summer house to your property can be an excellent way to add extra space and value. However, it is crucial to understand whether you require planning permission or not before starting any construction work. If in doubt, it is always best to check with your local planning authority. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your construction work is within the permitted development rules and avoids any potential legal issu