One of the first questions our customers ask before ordering a new garden building is a simple one: do I actually need planning permission for a shed? The good news is that in the vast majority of cases in England, the answer is no. Most domestic sheds fall under “permitted development rights”, which let you put up an outbuilding without a formal planning application. There are, however, important limits and exceptions to planning permission for a shed, and getting them wrong can be costly. This guide explains the rules in plain English.
The short answer on planning permission for a shed
For a typical house in England, you can usually build a shed without planning permission as long as it stays within the permitted development size and position limits described below. Permission is more likely to be needed if you live in a listed building, a conservation area, a National Park, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or if your property is a flat or maisonette rather than a house.
The main permitted development rules for sheds
Under current permitted development rights, an outbuilding such as a shed is generally allowed without planning permission when it meets the conditions in the table below:
| Rule | Limit |
|---|---|
| Number of storeys | Single storey only |
| Maximum eaves height | 2.5 metres |
| Max overall height (apex / dual-pitched roof) | 4 metres |
| Max overall height (any other roof) | 3 metres |
| Max height within 2m of a boundary | 2.5 metres |
| Position | Not forward of the principal elevation (front of the house) |
| Garden coverage | Outbuildings must not cover more than 50% of the land around the original house |
| Use | Incidental to the home, not living accommodation |
When you probably DO need permission
Treat planning permission as likely to be required if any of the following apply to your situation:
- Your home is a listed building — almost any outbuilding will need listed building consent.
- You live in a conservation area, National Park or AONB, where tighter rules apply, especially to buildings at the side of a property.
- The shed will be used as a self-contained living space, such as a bedroom or annexe.
- The building is larger or taller than the limits above, or sits forward of the front of the house.
- You are placing it on a property that is not a house, such as a flat.
What about building regulations?
Planning permission and building regulations are two different things. Most small sheds are exempt from building regulations, but they can apply if the floor area exceeds 15 square metres, or if the building is intended for sleeping in. A standard garden storage shed is almost always exempt.
Sheds near boundaries and fences
A very common scenario is wanting to tuck a shed into the corner of the garden, close to a fence. This is usually fine, but remember the 2.5 metre height limit that applies within 2 metres of a boundary. Most of our standard apex and pent sheds sit comfortably within this, but it’s worth checking the ridge height of taller workshop-style buildings.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
The figures above apply to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have their own permitted development rules with slightly different thresholds. If you are outside England, check the official UK Planning Portal or your local authority for the exact limits that apply to you.
A simple checklist before you order
- Is the shed single storey and within the height limits?
- Will it sit behind the front of your house?
- Are you in a conservation area, National Park or listed building?
- Will outbuildings cover less than half your garden?
- Is it for storage or hobby use rather than sleeping accommodation?
If you can answer “yes” to the height, position and coverage questions and “no” to the conservation/listed question, you are very likely covered by permitted development.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for a shed in my back garden?
In most cases, no. A shed in a back garden that is single storey, within the height limits and used for storage or hobbies will normally fall under permitted development — provided you’re not in a conservation area or listed building.
How close to the boundary can I build a shed?
You can usually build right up to the boundary, but if the shed is within 2 metres of it, the overall height must not exceed 2.5 metres to stay within permitted development.
Does a shed need planning permission if I use it as an office?
Occasional or incidental use, such as a home office or hobby room, is generally fine. Permission becomes more likely if the building is used as self-contained living or sleeping accommodation.
What happens if I build a shed without permission when I needed it?
You could be asked to alter or remove it, so it’s always worth checking with your local planning authority first if you’re unsure. The cost of a quick check is far lower than the cost of getting it wrong.
How Rutland Sheds can help
Every garden is different, and our team has been helping customers across Birmingham and the West Midlands choose the right building since 1985. If you’re unsure whether your plans fall within permitted development, our bespoke design service can size and position a shed to keep it compliant. Browse our range of sheds, explore summerhouses and garden rooms, or get in touch for a free quote and we’ll help you get it right first time.
This guide reflects general UK permitted development guidance as understood at the time of writing and is not a substitute for advice from your local planning authority.