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 Garden Walls in South Hams?
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.
Planning in South Hams
89%
of planning applications granted
92%
decided within the statutory or agreed time
71%
of householder applications decided within 8 weeks
In the year to December 2025, South Hams decided 1,050 planning applications. 498 of these were householder projects such as extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, of which 92% 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 South Hams
South Hams has 47 conservation areas. These include Ashprington, Aveton Gifford, Baston, Berry Pomeroy, Bigbury, Blackawton. 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.
Check with South Hams planning department before starting work to confirm whether your property is affected by any special designations.
Permitted Development Rules for Garden Walls
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
- 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 approval is not usually required
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. Even if your project is permitted development, you may still need building regulations approval. Contact South Hams building control or use an approved inspector.
How to Apply in South Hams
If you need planning permission for your garden walls, you can apply through South Hams'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 South Hams. 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?
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for garden walls in South Hams?
Does garden walls in South Hams need building regulations?
How do I apply for planning permission in South Hams?
How long does planning permission take in South Hams?
What percentage of planning applications does South Hams approve?
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