Do I need planning permission for my garden decking, and how do I get it ?
Homeowners need to understand if they need planning permission for decking before the project gets underway. It’s also best practice for decking installers to make sure clients have checked whether there are planning restrictions in the area, too.
When a new deck area is installed without the necessary planning permission, there can be unwanted repercussions, including having the decking dismantled by the local planning authority. It could also cause issues when it comes to selling the property in the future, neither of which are ideal.
Read on to understand when planning permission is needed for new decking and how to apply for it.
The difference between planning permission and building regulations
A good place to start is to understand the difference between planning permissions and building regulations, and which one applies to your project.
What is planning permission?
Planning permission is covered by the local planning authority and primarily relates to external works. It considers how the project will impact neighbouring properties and the general local environment.
What are building regulations?
Building regulations are defined by the English and Welsh Governments. They are a set of standards for the design and the construction, conversion or extension of buildings. Building regulations help ensure the buildings are safe and high performing in terms of fuel and power.
Which decking projects don’t need planning permission?
Many minor improvement works to homes, such as laying composite decking, are covered by ‘permitted development’. This means they don’t require planning permission.
If the following principles are met, planning permission generally isn’t needed for decking:
- The deck does not extend past the property’s front wall
- The deck, together with any other outbuildings or extensions, doesn’t cover more than 50% of the garden
- The deck structure is no more than 30cm above the ground. We go into more detail about whether homeowners need planning permission for decking over 30cm further down. For more details on decking bases and heights, read: Things to consider when building a base for composite decking.
We know many homeowners like to have decking installed over an existing surface, like concrete or patio. In such instances the same principles apply. Check out our advice on how to install composite decking on concrete or patios for further information about this type of project.
When did planning permission for decking come in?
On 1st October 2008, it was announced that homeowners wishing to add decking or other raised platforms could do so without needing a planning permission application. However, this only applies to decking areas that meet the principles above.
How big can decking be without planning permission?
Decking, together with any other extensions, outbuildings, or existing platforms, mustn’t exceed 50% of a garden. If it extends beyond this, the homeowner must apply for planning permission.
When is decking planning permission required?
However, there are certain situations where homeowners must gain planning permission before decking boards are installed.
These include if the:
- Decking affects the value or privacy of a neighbouring property
- Decked area is attached to a listed building or is in a conversation area or national park
- Decking is within 20m of a highway
Building regulations and balustrades
It’s important to note that building regulations apply to every structure that requires planning permission. For example, if the decking is over 30cm in height, it will be subject to planning permission and, therefore, building regulations.
In this case the building regulations will state that balustrading is needed. Balustrades make it safer for people to be on decking, especially a raised decking area.
Speak to the neighbours about decking plans
Before you start a decking project, it’s best practice to talk to neighbours and make them aware of the plans. If planning permission is required the neighbours will be consulted in time as a matter of process. But even without planning permission, neighbours can still raise concerns to the council if they believe it’s detrimental to their property or garden.
How to apply for planning permission
If planning permission is required for a composite decking project, you can find the appropriate forms online or at the local planning authority office. More information can be found on the government website, too.
What information do you need to apply for decking planning permission?
Homeowners will usually need the following information to complete a decking planning permission request:
- A location and site plan, and full house address
- Details of the decking with regards to its surrounding environment
- Full details of the project, including height, width, and length
- Details of how the new decked area will impact the local environment. This is particularly important if you live in a conservation area or a listed home.
Get started
So, if the decking project is set to be less than 30cm high and won’t exceed more than 50% of the garden (and stays in the back garden), you shouldn’t require planning permission – the decking project is good to go! However, we always recommend talking to an expert to get absolute confirmation and avoid any surprises further down the line.
Work out how many boards you need to complete your decking project with our composite decking calculator and check out our specifier resources for more information on decking installation.