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 Walls?
Building a new garden wall or boundary wall. Garden walls follow the same height limits as fencing under permitted development: 2m generally, or 1m if adjacent to a highway.
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 2, Class A of the GPDO, subject to the same height limits as fencing. Walls up to 2m in height (or 1m adjacent to a highway) do not require planning permission.
Conditions and Requirements
- 1Maximum height of 2m (or 1m if adjacent to a highway used by vehicles)
- 2Materials should be appropriate for the area
- 3Must not obstruct visibility for highway users
- 4Retaining walls with a significant change in ground level may have different rules
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 wall affects the setting of a listed building
- Conservation areas may have additional requirements for wall materials and design
- Retaining walls that change ground levels significantly may require a separate planning assessment
- Party wall agreements may apply if building on or near a boundary
What About Building Regulations?
Building Regulations do not normally apply to garden walls. However, walls over a certain height (typically 1.8m to 2m) may benefit from structural engineering design to ensure stability, particularly in clay soils or exposed locations.
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?
Low risk for walls under 2m. Enforcement applies to walls over 2m or over 1m adjacent to a highway. Poorly constructed walls that collapse and cause damage are a separate liability issue.
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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.