Blog>Questions>How big can I build a shed without planning permission?

Last updated: 26 May 2023

How big can I build a shed without planning permission?

Outbuildings like sheds are covered by permitted development rights. That means you can build them without planning permission, as long as you abide by certain rules! So, how big can you go without planning permission? Your shed must be single storey. It mustn’t cover more than 50% of your garden

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Outbuildings like sheds are covered by permitted development rights. That means you can build them without planning permission, as long as you abide by certain rules!

So, how big can you go without planning permission?

  • Your shed must be single storey.

  • It mustn’t cover more than 50% of your garden.

  • The floor area mustn't be more than 15m2 (although you might be able to get away with up to 30m2 if other conditions are also met).

  • The eaves height must be below 2.5m for a flat roof, 4m for a pitched roof, or 3m for anything else.

  • If your shed is going to be less than 2m from your property’s boundary, it must be no more than 2.5m high.

If you’re not sure whether your plans fall under permitted development rights, we’d recommend checking with your local authority to be sure. You can find your local council on the GOV.UK website.

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