Do I Need Planning Permission for an Outbuilding?
Usually NO
In most cases, NO — outbuildings such as sheds, studios, and workshops are usually permitted development, provided they meet the size and height limits.
Keep reading for the full rules.
Outbuildings — including sheds, garages, garden rooms, workshops, and studios — are generally permitted development under Class E of the GPDO 2015. The key rules relate to height, position, and the proportion of garden covered.
Permitted Development Rules by Region
Permitted Development Rules — England
- ✓Outbuildings must be in the rear or side garden — not forward of the principal elevation.
- ✓Maximum height is 2.5 metres if within 2 metres of the property boundary.
- ✓Maximum height is 4 metres (dual-pitched roof) or 3 metres (other roofs) if more than 2 metres from the boundary.
- ✓Total outbuilding area must not cover more than 50% of the original garden.
- ✓Outbuildings must not be used as a dwelling (no sleeping, kitchen, or bathroom as main use).
- ✓Not permitted for flats or listed buildings.
Size & Position Limits (England)
| Requirement | Limit / Rule |
|---|---|
| Max height (within 2m of boundary) | 2.5 metres |
| Max height (dual-pitched roof) | 4 metres |
| Max height (other roofs) | 3 metres |
| Max total garden coverage | 50% of original garden |
| Position | Not forward of principal elevation |
| Use | Not as a dwelling |
When Do You Need Planning Permission?
Even if your project is usually permitted development, planning permission is required in these circumstances:
- ✗The outbuilding would be used as a separate dwelling.
- ✗It is forward of the principal elevation.
- ✗It exceeds the height limits.
- ✗All outbuildings together would cover more than 50% of the garden.
- ✗Your property is listed or in certain conservation areas.
What Happens If You Build Without Permission?
Outbuildings used as dwellings without permission can be subject to enforcement action. The council has 4 years to take action.
Enforcement notices: Your council can issue an enforcement notice requiring you to stop the work, remove it, or restore the land to its original condition. You have a right of appeal against an enforcement notice.
Retrospective applications: If you have already carried out work that required planning permission, you can submit a retrospective planning application. If approved, this regularises the work. If refused, you may be required to remove it.
Time limits: For dwelling houses, the council generally has 4 years to take enforcement action for most types of work. For breaches of planning conditions, the time limit is 10 years. There is no time limit for listed building enforcement.