Do I Need Planning Permission to have a Garden Room Installed?

Are you thinking of having a garden room installed? Over the years garden rooms have become increasingly popular. A lot of people want garden rooms installed so that they can use them as a home office, gym or entertainment area. In this blog post we will provide you with advice as to whether you need planning permission to have a garden room installed. 

At Consumer Advisory, we can put you directly in touch with professional accredited contractors who can supply and install your garden room. 

What is a Garden Room?

A garden room is a single structure built in your garden. It can be insulated and have electricity and plumbing. A garden room is more substantial than a shed but less substantial than an extension or separate building. A garden room is often used as a:

• Home office or studio
• Gym or yoga room
• Playroom 
• Hobby space
• Guest room 

Local councils have updated guidance around garden rooms, particularly around planning permission.

What is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is a legal requirement from your local council before you build something new or alter the use of land or structures. Planning permission is used to make sure developments are appropriate for the area. It takes into consideration the impact on neighbours, environment and appearances.

If you don’t get planning permission, when it’s required, this can result in enforcement action. You might have to take down what you built or even face penalties.

When is Planning Permission Likely Needed for Garden Rooms?

Whether you need planning permission for your garden room depends on several factors:

• Size – The bigger your garden room, the more likely you’ll need permission.
• Height – Taller Garden rooms are more visible and more likely to need permission.
• Position – Does it sit close near the front of your house or on a protected piece of land?
• Use – If you intend to use it as a living space full time such as a bedroom, it might increase requirements.
• Conservation or Protected Status – If your property is listed or you’re in a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, National Park, then rules are stricter.

England: Permitted Development for Garden Rooms

A lot of garden rooms can be built under what’s called Permitted Development Rights. This means that they don’t need full planning permission if they meet certain criteria. Here are some of the general guidelines. You should always check with your local council:

If your garden room meets within these “Permitted Development” criteria’s, in most cases you can proceed with your garden room without formal planning permission. However, building regulations might still apply.

Building Regulations vs Planning Permission

People often confuse planning permission with building regulations. They are different:

• Planning Permission is to do with external appearance, impact on neighbours, the environment and whether what you build is acceptable in principle.
• Building Regulations relates to safety, structural integrity, insulation, ventilation, electrical work and drainage etc.

If your garden room does not need planning permission, it might still need to meet building regulation standards. You’ll need to ensure the structure of your garden room is safe and energy efficient.

How to Check If Your Garden Room Needs Planning Permission?

• Visit Your Local Council’s Planning Website – This is a great place to start. They’ll have guidance and checklists. 
• Use Government Planning Guidance – Such as the Planning Portal in England. It outlines permitted development rights.
• Speak to Your Neighbours – Even if you think your garden room is well within permitted development any neighbours raising objections can lead to issues.
• Get Professional Advice – Architects, planning consultants or companies specialising in garden rooms can help.
• Submit a Formal Planning Application If you are uncertain. The application might be approved, or you might need to change some design elements.

How to Apply for Planning Permission?

After you have checked and you find planning permission is required to build your garden room, here’s how the process generally works:

• Prepare Plans – Plans can include drawings, designs and location plans showing where the garden room will be, elevations, materials and height etc.
• Submit to the Local Planning Authority – You can submit online or by paper depending on your council.
• Consultation Period – Neighbours might be consulted. The council might request revisions. 
• Decision – You’ll receive either approval and sometimes with conditions, or refusal. If you refuse to build your garden room, reasons will be given.
• Appeal and Revise – If you’re unhappy with the decision, you can appeal or make changes and resubmit.

It can often take several weeks to a few months for planning permission to be approved. 

Conclusion 

Garden rooms are a smart investment as they add additional space to your home. You should always check if you need planning permission or meet building regulation requirements before installing your garden room. If you’re looking to have a garden room installed, you should hire a professional accredited contractor to ensure quality results. An accredited contractor who specialises in garden rooms will offer experience and knowledge and will install your garden room efficiently and to the highest standards. Consumer Advisory will put you directly in contact with approved and accredited contractors, to give you peace of mind. Please visit our website to get up to 3 free quotes https://consumer-advisory.co.uk/enquire-now/ .

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