What you need to know about planning rules and whether you need permission for your dream garden room, office or summer house
The size of your garden room, where you plan to put it, what you plan to use it for and where you live will all impact whether or not you will need planning permission.
Some firms will apply for planning permission for you, if needed. This is more likely if you’re buying a substantial structure and the company you’re buying from will also be installing it.
Garden room planning permission
Most garden rooms don’t require planning permission. They are classed as outbuildings, so you’re allowed to build one as long as you comply with certain rules.
That’s as long as you have permitted development rights at your home or the area you live in.
You might not have permitted development rights if:
- your home is a listed building
- your home is in a designated area, eg a National Park, area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), conservation area or World Heritage Site
Check with your local planning office if you’re not sure. Flats and maisonettes don’t have permitted development rights.
The rules are the same whether you live in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales.
