Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room in the UK?

Find out whether you need planning permission for a garden room in the UK, including size limits, rules, and when approval is required. Including what height you can go and how close to the boundary you can be.

Ash Gorecia

11/28/20251 min read

garden room design ideas at initial concept
garden room design ideas at initial concept

If you are thinking about adding a Garden Room the first questions you may likely ask yourself is:

Do I need Planning Permission?

In most cases the answer is no - but there are important rules you must follow to stay within UK permitted development rights.

Here's a clear breakdown of what you need to know.

What Is Permitted Development?

Permitted development rights allow home owners to build certain structures without needing formal planning permission, as long as they meet specific criteria.

Most well-designed garden rooms fall under these rights when they are placed correctly and stay within size limits.

When You DON'T Need Planning Permission

You generally won;'t need planning permission if your garden room:

  • Is single-storey

  • Is not used as a separate dwelling

  • Takes up Less than 50% of your garden area

  • Has a maximum Height of

    • 4m with a dual-pitched roof

    • 3m with any other roof type

    • 2.5m if installed within 2m of a boundary

If your garden room meets these conditions, you can usually build under permitted development

When You Do Need Planning Permission

You may need planning permission if:

  • Your home is a Listed Building

  • You live in a Conservation area

  • The Garden Room will be used as Self-contained accommodation

  • The structure exceeds height or size limits

It's always smart to double-check with your local council.

How Opulux Helps with Planning

At Opulux Garden Rooms, we guide you through the rules before any installation begins.

We:

  • Assess your garden layout

  • Advise if planning permission is required

  • Help with drawings and documentation if needed

This ensures your project stays fully compliant and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Most UK homeowners can build a garden room without planning permission, as long as they follow the permitted development rules.

If you're unsure about your situation, Opulux Garden Rooms can give you clear, honest advise.

Contact Opulux for a consultation