Published: 28/09/23 By: Mike Bekin
From extensions to conservatories, a lot of construction around the home needs planning permission. But what about timber decking? If you are thinking of adding a deck to your garden but you are not sure whether it would be allowed, we have put together an easy-to-understand guide with everything you need to know.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Decking?
Most timber decking won’t need planning permission, but it’s best to go over the rules just in case. Decking, and other raised platforms, are known as permitted developments, meaning you won’t need to ask before you build them. But, you will need permission if your decking will be:
- More than 30cm tall (above ground level)
- Cover no more than 50% of the outdoor space
- It’s added to the front of the house
Let’s take a closer look at each to work out whether you’ll need to ask for planning permission before beginning your build.
Decking That’s Too Tall
Your decking can’t be more than 30cm off the ground without needing planning permission. This includes if you’re building on a sloping site, such as if your garden isn’t level with your house. If just one area is over 30cm away from the ground, you’ll need to apply for permission to add it to your garden.
Decking That’s Too Large
After ensuring your timber decking is low enough, you also need to make sure that it doesn’t cover too much of your outdoor space. If it covers over half of your garden, you’ll need to submit a planning application.
Be aware that in national parks, the limit on your deck size is 10 metres squared for anything that’s over 20 metres away from your house.
Decking Added to the Front of Your House
Your principal elevation (in other words, the front of your house) is an area that often is more public or has more of an impact on your neighbours. Because of that, any timber decking in this area will need planning permission. Any plans that intrude on the privacy of your neighbours by overlooking their home or front garden are likely to be rejected, so bear that in mind.
Other Areas to Pay Attention To
If you’re looking to add timber decking to an area in a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Beauty, or a World Heritage Site, it’s smart to contact your local council for more information. This is the same for listed buildings. Regulations can be stricter for these, so it’s always better to be on the safe side and double check your plans are approved.
Find Timber Decking at EcoChoice
If your decking plans don’t look like they’ll require planning permission, it’s time to get your project started! That’s where our team come in. At EcoChoice, we supply timber decking boards in a range of species and can help you choose the right options for your project. Get in touch with us for expert advice or start your order today.
