Planning permission for Garden Rooms & Garden Offices
- Stuart Simms
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 18
Many clients ask us whether they need planning permission for their proposed garden rooms and so this blog has been written to help answer the question.
Do I Need Planning Permission for My Garden Room or Office?
If you’re considering adding a garden room or office to your property, one of the first questions you may have is: Do I need planning permission? The good news is that in many cases, garden rooms can be built under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), meaning you may not need to apply for planning permission. However, there are important rules and exceptions to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
Understanding Permitted Development Rights
In the UK, most outbuildings, including garden rooms and offices, fall under Permitted Development, provided they meet specific criteria. Your garden room will likely not require planning permission if:
It is single-storey with a maximum eaves height of 2.5m and an overall height of 4m (for dual-pitched roofs) or 3m (for other roofs).
It does not cover more than 50% of the total area of land around your original house.
It is not used as self-contained living accommodation (i.e., not a separate dwelling).
It is located behind the principal elevation of your home.
It is not in a conservation area, national park, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with special restrictions.
When Planning Permission May Be Required
You may need planning permission if:
The structure is larger than permitted development allows or is placed in front of the principal elevation.
Your property is in a designated area, such as a national park or conservation area.
You live in a listed building, in which case you will likely need consent for any outbuildings.
The garden room is intended for commercial use, particularly if it will generate high traffic.
You plan to use it as a permanent residence or install a bathroom and kitchen, essentially turning it into a separate dwelling.
Building Regulations: What You Need to Know
Even if your garden room doesn’t require planning permission, building regulations may still apply in certain circumstances:
If the building is over 15m² and within 1m of a boundary, fire safety regulations must be considered.
If the internal floor area exceeds 30m², it must comply fully with building regulations.
If you plan to install electricity, plumbing, or insulation, these installations must meet building regulation standards.
How to Check if You Need Planning Permission
To be absolutely sure, you can:
Use the Planning Portal (www.planningportal.co.uk) to check government guidance.
Contact your local planning authority (LPA) for specific advice on your area.
Apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for formal confirmation that your garden room is permitted under development rights.
Final Thoughts
For most homeowners, a garden office or room can be built without the hassle of planning permission. However, it’s always best to double-check the rules for your specific location. At The Garden Room Experts, we design and build bespoke garden rooms that comply with all regulations, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
📞 Get in touch today to discuss your perfect garden space and find out how we can help!
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