Planning Permission for Garden Projects in the UK: What You Need to Know

CEO & Garden Designer
Ruth Marshall

Do I Need Planning Permission for My Garden Projects?

In the UK, many garden projects can be undertaken without planning permission, but certain types of work do require it, depending on the scope, location, and impact on the surrounding area. At CGLA, we’re not planning experts, but we frequently encounter this question. We’ve put together a brief overview to share our understanding. Remember, always seek professional advice if you’re uncertain about your specific project. You can find detailed, authoritative guidance on the UK Planning Portal.

Each local council has its own planning resources, such as our local Buckinghamshire website, which you can explore for more information on local regulations: Buckinghamshire Planning and Building Control.

We also work with environmental experts and planning consultants, like Faye Wright at Forward Planning, and we’d be happy to connect you with them if your project requires further input.

Major Projects and New Builds

From our experience, large landscape projects associated with new builds or major renovations are often included in the main planning application. This approach has benefits, such as zero-rated VAT for certain works (learn more here).

For new builds, remember that you now need to submit a Biodiversity Net Gain plan, which requires early landscaping planning. We can help with that! Here’s more guidance on the importance of biodiversity in planning: Why Biodiversity Net Gain is Essential.

For projects in sensitive areas, such as conservation zones or near listed buildings, a planning consultant might be necessary to ensure compliance with all regulations.

green house

Common Garden Elements Requiring Planning Permission

Here are some common garden features that often require planning permission:

  1. Building Structures

    • Garden Rooms, Sheds, and Outbuildings: These may need permission if they exceed certain height limits (e.g., over 2.5m near a boundary).
    • Greenhouses and Conservatories: Typically allowed under permitted development but may need permission if very large or prominent.
    • Garages or Carports: May need permission if placed in front of the house or if taking up significant garden space.
    • Pergolas and Gazebos: Large or tall structures near boundaries often require permission.
  2. Fences, Walls, and Gates

    • Height Limits: Building a fence, wall, or gate over 1m near a road or over 2m elsewhere generally needs planning permission.
    • Boundary Treatments: Fences close to a highway or over 1m in height often need permission.
    • Listed Properties and Conservation Areas: Any boundary changes on listed properties or within conservation areas usually require permission.
  3. Paving and Driveways

    • Paving Over Front Gardens: You need permission for non-permeable paving larger than 5 square meters.
    • New Driveways: Permission may be required for new access points onto public roads.
    • Driveway Gates: Setback rules often require at least 5m from the road.
  4. Decking and Raised Platforms

    • Height Restrictions: Decking over 30cm above ground level requires planning permission, as do raised patios.
  5. Garden Landscaping and Terracing

    • Earthworks and Terracing: Large-scale changes to garden levels often need permission.
    • Retaining Walls: These may require approval, especially in areas prone to flooding.
  6. Tree Work and Hedgerows

    • Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs): Trees protected by TPOs require council permission for any work.
    • Conservation Areas: Notice must be given before working on larger trees.
    • Hedgerow Regulations: Countryside hedgerows are often legally protected.
  7. Water Features and Ponds

    • Large Ponds: While small ponds don’t typically need permission, larger water features may impact drainage and require consent.
  8. External Lighting

    • Floodlights or Bright Lighting: High-intensity lighting can affect neighbours and may need permission, especially in conservation areas.
  9. Protected Properties and Locations

    • Listed Buildings: Any garden changes within the curtilage of a listed building usually need permission.
    • Conservation Areas and AONBs: More restrictions apply in these zones.
  10. New Access Points

    • Driveway Entrances on Public Roads: New access points often require planning permission.
  1. Works Beyond Domestic Curtilage

    • Non-Garden Land: Any work outside the official garden area usually requires planning permission, particularly if you are effectively including an agricultural space into garden.
swimming pool

Summary

That’s a long list, but we encounter these regulations often. The most common challenges involve structures like buildings, lighting for sports areas, and changes to boundary treatments.  We always recommend consulting early with a planning expert if you’re unsure, especially if you’re in a conservation area or near a boundary where neighbours might object.

If you’re planning a new build, extension, or a significant landscaping project, reach out to our award-winning team for advice. We’re here to discuss your vision, help you navigate planning regulations, and assist in bringing your project to life. Contact us at CGLA to start the conversation.

Planning ahead is key, especially since planning services can be slow. Early consultation can save you time and keep your project moving forward!

CGLA are an award winning team of Garden Designers, Landscape Architects, Landscapers and Garden Maintenance Operatives working in Buckinghamshire, London and the South East, as well as on prestigious design projects across the UK and abroad. We are currently working in Oman, Jersey and France, and welcome enquires for design, landscaping or garden maintenance. Contact us here

Garden Design

Landscaping

Projects