When you’re thinking of putting a shed into your garden, one of the first questions you will ask: What is the maximum size shed without planning permission UK?
It is a very important question because getting planning permission can actually take a lot of time and can be quite expensive. But fortunately there are guidelines that tell you whether you really need to make a planning application or not.
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What is permitted development?
In UK law, certain building works, including the construction of sheds, are included under the permitted development category. If your construction work fits within these limits, you do not need to apply for planning permission. These limits predominantly pertain to the size, location, and nature of usage of the shed. However, make sure you read through the guidelines from the local planning authority, as these rules may differ with location.
What is the maximum size shed without planning permission UK? Affecting key factors
The size of the shed you can consider building without planning permission depends on several factors, including height, position, and location at your property. Below, we break down these key elements.
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01. Height of the shed
- Near the boundary: If your shed is placed less than 2 meters off from your property boundary, its maximum height cannot exceed 2.5 meters.
- Away from the boundary: If your shed is located more than 2 meters off from the boundary, it can be taller. For a single-story shed, the maximum eaves height is 2.5 meters, but the maximum total height is 4 meters for a dual-pitched roof and 3 meters if the roof is pent style.
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02. Size of the shed (floor area)
 As a general rule, a shed with a floor space under 15 square meters does not require planning permission as long as it is not used as living space (such as a bedroom).
- Total land coverage: A shed or any other structure should not cover more than 50% of the land around your original house. This includes any garden buildings, summerhouses, or outbuildings. The ‘original house’ refers to the house as it was first constructed in the 1940s.
Special considerations for shed placement
Placement of your shed plays a significant role in whether you need planning permission.
- In front of your house: Any shed built in front of the principal elevation (the front) of your house is more likely to require planning permission, especially if it is a permanent structure.
- At the rear or side: Shed placement towards the back or sides of the property generally faces fewer restrictions. This makes it easier to build larger structures without planning permission.
Other factors to consider:
- Protected areas: If your property is located in a protected area, like a national park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), or a conservation area, the rules can be stricter and you may face additional restrictions. As an example, sheds over 20 meters off from the house in these areas cannot exceed 10 square meters in size.
- Woodland: If you own woodland, you may need planning permission for any structure, including sheds, as these are typically considered permanent structures in these areas.
Summary of maximum size of shed without planning permission in the UK
Feature | Maximum size Without PP |
Height (within 2 m off boundary) | 2.5 meters |
Height (more than 2 m off from boundary) | 4 meters (dual-pitched roof), 3 meters (pent roof) |
Floor Area | Less than 15 square meters |
Total Land Coverage | Not more than 50% of the land surrounding of the original house |
maximum size of shed without planning permission in the UK: Visual illustration of height
When the shed is less than 2 meters off from the boundary:
As you can see, the drawing illustration shows the maximum heights when the shed is to be built within 2m off the boundary. It shows the maximum eaves height of 2 meters and total height of 3 meters. if the roof style is dual pitch or pent style.
When the shed is more than 2 meters off from the boundary:
The below drawings show the maximum height of 4 meters for the dual-pitched roof, with a maximum eaves height of 2.5 meters.
For the pent roof style, the maximum eaves height is 2.5 meters, and the total height is 3 meters.
End Thoughts
Understanding the maximum size shed you can build without planning permission in the UK can save you time and effort. Generally, if your shed is single-story, does not exceed the height limits, is placed correctly, and covers a reasonable area, you should be within permitted development rights. Before carrying out any developments on a property, ensure that you consult local laws, especially if the property happens to fall within a restricted area. You may want to consult your local planning authority or hire an expert if it becomes unclear at some point.
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This is how to achieve a perfect garden space without having to worry about planning permission at all.
