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 Garden Shed?
A garden shed for storage, hobbies, or as a workshop. Garden sheds are one of the most straightforward projects under permitted development, provided they stay within the size and height limits.
The General Position
This project is usually allowed under permitted development rights without needing to apply for planning permission, provided certain conditions and limits are met.
Generally permitted under Part 1, Class E of the GPDO. Outbuildings are permitted provided they are for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling, are not forward of the principal elevation, and comply with height and area limits.
Conditions and Requirements
- 1Must be for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling
- 2Must not be forward of the principal elevation fronting a highway
- 3Maximum height 2.5m if within 2m of a boundary
- 4Maximum height 4m (dual-pitch roof) or 3m (any other roof) if more than 2m from a boundary
- 5Must not cover more than half the curtilage (combined with all other outbuildings and extensions)
Size and Dimension Limits
- Height within 2m of boundary: 2.5m maximum
- Height elsewhere: 4m (dual pitch) or 3m (other roofs)
- No single building footprint limit, but total must not exceed 50% of curtilage
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- In designated areas (conservation areas, AONB, etc.), outbuildings to the side of the house are not permitted development
- In designated areas, total outbuilding area beyond 10 square metres requires planning permission
- Cannot be used for sleeping accommodation (residential use)
- Must not be a separate self-contained dwelling
What About Building Regulations?
Building Regulations do not normally apply to detached single-storey outbuildings under 15 square metres with no sleeping accommodation. Between 15 and 30 square metres, the building must be at least 1m from any boundary or be constructed of non-combustible materials. Over 30 square metres, Building Regulations apply.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. You may need both, one, or neither depending on your project. Building regulations cover the safety and quality of building work, including structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
How to Apply for Planning Permission
Check if you need permission
Review the permitted development rules above. If in doubt, contact your council or apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.
Prepare your application
You will need scaled drawings, a site plan, and a completed application form. An architect or planning consultant can help with this.
Submit to your local council
Applications can be submitted online via the Planning Portal or directly to your council. Select your council below for a direct link.
Wait for a decision
8 weeks for householder planning applications if PP is needed..
Application cost: £258.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Enforcement is unlikely for modest sheds within PD limits. Oversized or over-height sheds may attract complaints from neighbours, leading to enforcement investigation. The council can require removal if the shed breaches PD conditions.
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Select Your Council
Choose your local council for guidance specific to your area, including links to apply and whether your council has conservation areas or Article 4 directions that could affect your project.
London
South East
South West
East of England
East Midlands
West Midlands
North East
North West
Yorkshire and the Humber
CA = has conservation areas. A4 = has Article 4 directions. These may restrict your permitted development rights.