This is general guidance based on standard permitted development rights in England. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties with Article 4 directions. Always confirm with your local planning authority before starting work.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Fencing (Under 2 Metres) in Forest of Dean?
Installing, replacing, or maintaining a fence up to 2 metres in height. Fencing under 2m is one of the most straightforward permitted development rights, with few restrictions.
Planning in Forest of Dean
92%
of planning applications granted
95%
decided within the statutory or agreed time
65%
of householder applications decided within 8 weeks
In the year to December 2025, Forest of Dean decided 596 planning applications. 305 of these were householder projects such as extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, of which 98% were granted.
Planning statistics: MHCLG planning application statistics, the year to December 2025. Conservation area and Article 4 data: planning.data.gov.uk, © Historic England / Crown copyright. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Important: Additional Restrictions May Apply in Forest of Dean
Forest of Dean has 27 conservation areas. These include Alvington Conservation Area, Awre Conservation Area, Aylburton Conservation Area, Blaisdon Conservation Area, Blakeney Conservation Area, Brockweir Conservation Area. If your property is in a conservation area, some or all permitted development rights may be restricted. For example, you may need planning permission for changes that would normally be permitted, including alterations to the roof, cladding, or extensions visible from a public highway.
Forest of Dean has Article 4 directions in force. These include Newnham (within conservation area). Article 4 directions remove specific permitted development rights in defined areas. If your property is covered by an Article 4 direction, you may need planning permission for work that would normally be permitted. Contact Forest of Dean planning department to check whether an Article 4 direction applies to your property.
Check with Forest of Dean planning department before starting work to confirm whether your property is affected by any special designations.
Permitted Development Rules for a Fencing (Under 2 Metres)
Generally permitted under Part 2, Class A of the GPDO. Fences, walls, and gates up to 2m in height do not require planning permission, provided they are not adjacent to a highway used by vehicular traffic (where the limit is 1m).
Conditions
- 1Maximum height of 2m
- 2If adjacent to a highway used by vehicular traffic, maximum height is 1m
- 3Must not be erected in front of the principal elevation if it would exceed 1m (highway boundary)
- 4Replacement fencing to the same height is also PD
Size and Dimension Limits
- Height: 2m maximum (1m if adjacent to a highway used by vehicles)
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- Listed building consent may be needed if the fence affects the setting of a listed building
- In conservation areas, fencing is generally still PD but check for Article 4 directions
- High hedges are covered by separate legislation (Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, Part 8)
- Boundary disputes are a civil matter, not a planning issue
What About Building Regulations?
Building regulations approval is not usually required
Building Regulations do not apply to garden fencing. There are no structural, thermal, or fire safety requirements for domestic fences under 2m.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. Even if your project is permitted development, you may still need building regulations approval. Contact Forest of Dean building control or use an approved inspector.
How to Apply in Forest of Dean
If you need planning permission for your fencing (under 2 metres), you can apply through Forest of Dean's planning department or via the national Planning Portal.
If your project is permitted development and you want written confirmation, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from Forest of Dean. This provides proof that your project does not need planning permission, which can be helpful when selling your property.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Very low risk for fencing under 2m. Enforcement is only likely if the fence is on a highway boundary and exceeds 1m, or if there is an Article 4 direction. Boundary ownership disputes are a civil matter between neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a fencing (under 2 metres) in Forest of Dean?
Does a fencing (under 2 metres) in Forest of Dean need building regulations?
How do I apply for planning permission in Forest of Dean?
How long does planning permission take in Forest of Dean?
What percentage of planning applications does Forest of Dean approve?
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