EXPERT ADVICE
Do I need planning permission for a shed?
Updated 03/26
By: Laura Macdonald
Reviewed: Alex Peters
Thinking about putting up a shed? It’s one of those projects that sounds simple — until someone mentions planning permission.
The good news is that most garden sheds don’t need formal approval. But size, height, location and how you plan to use it all matter — and that’s where confusion tends to creep in.
A quick sense-check before you start building your shed can save you time, paperwork and awkward conversations later.
Do you need planning permission? When permitted development applies — and when it doesn’t
What size and height limits apply? Boundary distance, roof type and garden coverage rules explained
Are there exceptions? Listed buildings, conservation areas and agricultural land
Do building regulations apply? When structure, electrics or heating change the requirements
Do you need planning permission for a shed?
In most cases in England and Wales, you do not need planning permission for a shed if it meets permitted development rules.
A shed is normally allowed without planning permission if it:
Is for domestic use only (e.g., storage, hobbies, bikes, tools)
Is not used as sleeping accommodation
Is not a separate self-contained living space
If you're planning to use your shed as a bedroom, annexe, bathroom or independent living space, planning permission is required.
When can you build a shed without planning permission?
You can usually build a shed under permitted development if:
It occupies less than 50% of the land around your house
It is not located in front of your property
The eaves height does not exceed 2.5m
The total height does not exceed:
2.5m (if within 2m of a boundary)
3m (flat roof)
4m (dual-pitched roof)
It is single storey
It has no veranda or raised decking above 30cm
It contains no sleeping accommodation
These rules apply to most garden buildings, including garages and greenhouses.
For example, a typical 2.4m x 3m timber garden shed positioned at the back of a standard suburban garden will usually fall within permitted development — provided it stays under the height limits and isn’t used as accommodation.
What’s the biggest shed you can build without planning permission?
There isn’t one single ‘maximum size’ shed you can build without permission. Several factors apply.
Generally:
There is no single national floor area limit, but height and coverage restrictions often make sheds around 15m² the practical upper limit in many domestic settings
In designated areas (Conservation Areas, AONBs, etc.) it may be restricted further (often around 10m²)
Height and boundary distance rules also apply
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is assuming there’s a fixed maximum size (for example, '15m² is always allowed'). In reality, height, boundary distance and overall garden coverage often matter more than floor area alone.
Always check with your local authority if you're unsure.
Are the rules different for different shed materials?
Planning permission rules usually apply the same way regardless of material — whether your shed is:
Timber
Metal
Brick
Concrete
What matters is:
Size
Height
Position
Intended use
However, brick or concrete sheds may trigger building regulations considerations depending on size and construction method — particularly if electrics, insulation, or heating are installed.
If you’re adding insulation, electrics or a solid structure, it’s worth double-checking before you build.
Planning permission vs building regulations: what’s the difference?
It’s easy to mix these up, but they’re not the same thing:
Planning permission relates to how your shed affects neighbours, appearance, size, and land use
Building regulations relate to how the structure is built, including safety, foundations, insulation, electrics, heating, and fire protection
Many small sheds won’t trigger either planning permission or building regulations. But for larger sheds — or if you start adding insulation, electrics or heating — different rules can apply.
If you’re unsure, your local planning authority or building control department can confirm what applies.
Does laying a concrete base require planning permission?
In most cases, a concrete shed base does not require planning permission on its own.
However, it may become relevant if:
It significantly alters ground levels
It contributes to the overall footprint exceeding permitted limits
Drainage is affected
A simple base for a small domestic shed is rarely an issue. However, larger groundworks may need checking first.
Problems tend to arise when ground levels are raised significantly or drainage patterns are altered.
Are there exceptions?
You may need planning permission if:
You live in a listed building
Your property is in a Conservation Area, National Park, World Heritage Site, AONB, or The Broads
The shed will be used as accommodation
You live in Scotland or Northern Ireland (rules differ)
The shed is built on agricultural land or detached woodland
It’s sensible to confirm these aspects before you commit to materials or groundwork.
What about agricultural land?
The rules are different if the shed is being built on agricultural land or in a field.
Whether planning permission is required depends on:
Intended use
Location
Whether the land has residential status
Always get advice from your local planning authority for agricultural structures.
How much does planning permission for a shed cost?
If planning permission is required, application fees in England are currently £528, although exact costs can vary by local authority.
You may also incur additional costs for:
Architectural drawings
Surveys
Professional planning advice
If your shed falls under permitted development, no application fee is required.
Shed planning permission checklist
If everything above looks in order, you’re probably within permitted development, but it’s always easier to confirm now than correct it later.
What does it cost to build a shed?
Once you’ve confirmed your shed meets permitted development rules, it’s sensible to think about budget before you start.
The final cost will depend on a few practical factors:
The size and type of shed
Whether a base or groundwork is required
Materials used (timber, metal, brick or concrete)
Extras such as electrics, insulation or heating
For a clearer idea of typical installation and base costs, take a look at our shed building cost guide so you can plan realistically.
Find a shed installer near you
Once you’re confident your shed plans meet the rules, the next step is making sure it’s built properly.
An experienced tradesperson can help you stay within permitted development limits, advise on foundations and electrics, and flag up anything that might require further approval.
Search your postcode to compare checked, reviewed shed builders near you and request quotes with confidence.
Find a recommended shed builder near you
FAQs
Do I need planning permission for a concrete shed base?
Planning permission is not usually needed for a standard base for a small shed. However, large groundwork changes may need checking.
Do you need planning permission for a bike shed?
Planning permission for a bike shed is not normally needed, as long as it meets permitted development size and height rules.
Do you need planning permission to put a log burner in a shed?
Planning permission isn’t usually the issue when putting a log burner in a shed, but building regulations and chimney safety standards almost certainly will be.
Can I build a shed next to my neighbour’s fence?
Yes, you can build a shed next to your neighbour's fence, provided height limits are respected (max 2.5m within 2m of a boundary). It’s wise to speak to your neighbour first.
Do you need planning permission for a brick shed?
Shed material doesn’t usually affect planning rules. It's shed size, height, location and usage that matter.
How high can a shed be without planning permission?
A shed can be up to 2.5m high if within 2m of a boundary. Otherwise, up to 3m (flat roof) or 4m (dual-pitched).
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