Key Takeaways -

• Ensure your decking complies with height, size, and location rules to avoid planning permission issues.
• Consult local planning authorities for projects in conservation areas, near highways, or listed properties.
• Decking or other raised platforms must meet permitted development criteria, including not exceeding 30 cm height and 50% garden coverage.
• Planning permission ensures compliance with legal, safety, and aesthetic standards for your outdoor space.

Decking can enhance your outdoor space, but before starting your project, it’s important to know if you need planning permission. In the UK, this depends on factors like the height, size, and location of your decking. Failing to follow the rules could lead to problems with your local council.

This article will explain when planning permission is needed, what counts as permitted development, and the steps to stay within the rules. It will also cover special restrictions for areas like conservation zones and listed buildings.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about planning permission for decking. By understanding the requirements, you can build a deck that’s both beautiful and compliant with the law.

What is Planning Permission for Decking?

Planning permission is formal approval from your local planning authority for changes to your property. It ensures your decking project complies with rules protecting the area’s appearance, the environment, and neighbours’ rights, helping you avoid legal or financial issues.

Local planning authorities regulate property changes to preserve neighbourhood aesthetics, protect privacy, and prevent disruption to the community.

Unlike building regulations, which focus on structural safety, planning permission addresses a project’s impact and location. Both may apply to decking, depending on the design.

Conditions for Permitted Development Rights

Height Restrictions

Garden decking under permitted development must not exceed 30 cm (1 foot) above ground level, ensuring it blends with its surroundings and minimises visual impact.

Exceeding this height requires planning permission, as taller decking can affect neighbours’ privacy or obstruct views, increasing the risk of objections from local authorities or residents.

Garden Coverage

Decking and outbuildings combined must ensure platforms cover no more than 50% of the garden area. This rule ensures enough open space remains, preserving the property’s usability and character.

Exceeding this limit requires planning permission, as large decking projects are assessed for their environmental and visual impact before approval.

Location-Specific Rules

Decking cannot extend beyond the front wall of your property to maintain street-facing aesthetics and avoid disrupting the neighbourhood.

Stricter rules apply in conservation areas, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and near listed buildings to protect the area’s character. Decking within 20 meters of a highway usually requires planning permission due to safety and privacy concerns.

When Should You Seek Planning Permission For Your Decking

Specific Circumstances

Planning permission is required if your decking exceeds the permitted height of 30 cm or covers more than 50% of your garden area (1). Larger or taller structures can significantly impact the surrounding environment and neighbours, necessitating formal approval.

Decking attached to listed buildings or located in conservation areas faces stricter regulations. These areas require additional permissions to ensure the changes do not compromise historical, cultural, or environmental value.

Impact on Neighbours

Decking projects that obstruct light, overlook neighbouring properties, or reduce privacy may require planning permission. Local authorities prioritise minimising disruption to adjacent homes. In some cases, neighbour consent plays a crucial role.

If your decking directly impacts them, objections could delay or block approval, even if other requirements are met. Consulting neighbours early can help avoid disputes.

Building Regulations for Decking

When Building Regulations Apply

Building regulations apply when decking poses safety concerns, particularly for raised platforms over 30 cm. Structural stability, proper support, and safe access points are essential for ensuring usability.

Height-specific standards require stairs to have appropriate inclines and railings to meet safety guidelines. Balustrades must be sturdy and comply with height requirements to prevent accidents, especially on elevated decks.

How to Obtain Building Regulation Approval

To obtain approval, submit your plans to local authorities or hire an approved inspector to review the project. Applications typically include design details and structural specifications. Adhering to safety requirements is crucial to prevent delays and ensure the deck’s stability.

Using qualified tradespeople can streamline the process and ensure compliance with all necessary regulations.

Key Considerations for Decking in Special Areas

Conservation and Protected Areas

Decking in conservation areas, national parks, heritage sites, or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty faces additional restrictions to preserve the local character. Projects in these areas require careful planning and often need explicit approval from local authorities.

In protected zones, decking that is 20 meters or more from the house may only cover up to 10 square meters. These limits help maintain the area’s natural or historical value, ensuring minimal disruption to its appearance.

Guidelines for Listed Buildings

Decking within the curtilage of listed properties is heavily regulated to protect historical significance. Materials, design, and location must align with the property’s architectural integrity.

Alterations that could impact the historical or aesthetic value are often restricted, requiring detailed applications to the local planning authority. Seeking professional advice is essential for compliance and to avoid damaging the property’s heritage status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the 4-Year Rule for Decking UK?

The 4-year rule, a general planning principle, allowed unauthorised developments like a raised deck to gain immunity from enforcement if in place for four years without objection. However, as of April 25, 2024, this has changed to a 10-year rule for new cases (2).

While the 4-year rule applies to older decking breaches, newer developments must meet the updated 10-year requirement for a Certificate of Lawfulness. Always consult your local authority for guidance.

Do I Need Planning Permission to Replace an Existing Deck?

Replacing an existing deck usually does not require planning permission if the new deck matches the original in size, height, and location. However, if you alter the dimensions, increase the height, or change its position, planning permission may be necessary.

It’s important to check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with regional rules.

How Close Can Decking Be to a House?

Decking can be installed next to a house, but a minimum 10mm gap is recommended to ensure proper ventilation and prevent damp issues (3). When decking supports garden rooms or sheds, it must adhere to planning rules, including limits on height and garden coverage.

In conservation areas or near listed buildings, stricter restrictions may apply to placement. Always check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with regulations and protect your property.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding planning permission requirements is essential before you install decking or other raised platforms. By following height, size, and location regulations, you can avoid legal complications and ensure your project complies with local rules.

Always consult your local planning authority for specific guidelines, especially in restricted areas, to create a safe and compliant outdoor space.

Sources -

1. https://ecodek.co.uk/help-advice/insights/planning-permission-for-decking/
2. https://urbanistarchitecture.co.uk/the-four-year-rule-explained-certificate-of-lawfulness-application-for-existing-use-or-development/
3. https://sheararchitecturaldesign.co.uk/unlocking-your-backyard-paradise-the-ultimate-guide-to-decking-planning-permission/