If you’re considering building a garden room in the UK, it’s important to understand the planning permission requirements. Garden rooms can be a fantastic addition to your property, providing extra space for work, relaxation, or entertaining guests. However, there are regulations that must be adhered to before you start construction.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what is meant by a garden room. In the eyes of planning law, a garden room is a single-storey structure that is not used for permanent residential accommodation. It can be used for a range of purposes, such as a home office, gym, or studio, but it must not be used as a separate dwelling.
Planning permission is not usually required for a garden room, provided that it meets certain criteria. If your garden room meets the following conditions, you will not need to apply for planning permission:
- The garden room must not take up more than 50% of the total area of land around the original house.
- The garden room must be single-storey, with a maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres and a maximum overall height of 4 metres with a dual pitched roof.
- The garden room must not be used for residential purposes, such as a separate dwelling.
- The garden room must not be located on land forward of a wall forming the principal elevation of the original house.
- The garden room must be located at least 2 metres away from the boundary of your property.
It’s worth noting that if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, planning permission may be required for a garden room. In these cases, it’s important to consult with your local planning authority to understand what regulations apply.
If your garden room does not meet the conditions outlined above, you will need to apply for planning permission before construction can begin. This involves submitting plans for your garden room and paying a fee to your local planning authority. The planning authority will consider a range of factors when reviewing your application, including the size and location of your garden room, its impact on your neighbours, and its effect on the character of the area.
In summary, planning permission is not usually required for a garden room in the UK, provided that it meets certain criteria. If you’re planning to build a garden room, it’s important to check with your local planning authority to understand the regulations that apply to your property. By following the rules and regulations, you can ensure that your garden room is a valuable addition to your property without running afoul of the law.