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Do I need planning permission to put a bin store in the front garden?
A bin store is classed as an outbuilding, these fall under permitted development rules meaning they are allowed as long as they adhere to a set list of rules. However, one of these rules is that outbuildings cannot be placed in front of the principal elevation*. As such, you will be required to apply for planning permission to build a bin store or any permanent structure in your front garden.
Read more about the rules for outbuildings.
Principal elevation - The most visible or prominent side of a structure, typically facing a street or public area. While often considered the 'front' of the building, it may not always contain the main entrance.
Common Questions
Changing from a commercial use (use class E) to residential(use class C3) falls under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required.
To use the permitted development right you must meet the rules and regulations set out in legislation, this includes submitting an application for prior approval to the local planning authority. The full list of conditions is available on the government website, or our online application form will tell you whether you are eligible.
If you are not eligible for the permitted development right, you will have to submit an application for full planning permission.
If you're doing electrical installation work in your home or garden in England or Wales, you must follow the building regulations. It's recommended to hire an installer who is registered with a competent person scheme (a registered competent person’) who can self-certify that the work meets the required standards.
A designated area is situated within a World Heritage Site, Conservation Area, Site of Special Scientific Interest, National Park, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the area is protected by law due to its architectural or historic interest or landscape.
Due to this protection, there will be further limits on what you can do to your property if it is within such an area, for example building an extension, changes to the roof, or work to trees. Restrictions will be put in place and permitted development rights will not apply.
If you live in a designated area, you must seek advice from your local planning authority before starting any work.
To qualify as permitted development some household building work projects – notably extending a house – must not exceed limits to the volume being added.
In England, the volume allowance mostly applies to loft conversions. You can read more on the Planning Portal.
Use the volume calculator to find out the volume of several loft conversion and extension types.
Planning permission is not normally required to turn two properties into one by knocking through a party wall provided the changes are internal and do not impact the external appearance of the property.
You should check with your local planning authority that they agree, and there are not any previous planning changes or conditions which may have an impact.
Additional permissions may be required depending on the building’s history and their location. If the building is listed, an application for listed building consent will be required before any major changes are made to the dwellings.
The work will have to comply with building regulations, the focus will be on structural work and safety.
Read more about how building regulations apply to internal walls.
