.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
Do I need planning permission to put up a fence, gate or garden wall?
You will not need to apply for planning permission if you wish to erect a new; or alter, maintain, improve or take down* an existing fence, wall or gate if certain conditions are met. If any of the conditions are not met, then you will need to apply for planning permission.
Find out about the limits and conditions for fences, gates and walls.
Fences, walls and gates do not require building regulation approval. Even though building regulations do not apply, the structures must be structurally sound and maintained.
If you share a wall with a neighbour, it may be classed as a ‘party fence wall’.
Common Questions
Installing a new septic tank in your garden will often require both planning permission, building regulations approval and a septic tank permit.
The planning permission will ensure that the tank is installed in an appropriate location with information being provided to understand any potential implications for the surrounding environment and water.
Building regulations is required for the installation of a septic tank to ensure it meets the drainage and waste disposal standards set out in Approved Document H.
Where possible it is recommended that you connect to an existing public sewer instead of installing a septic tank, this reduces waste entering the waterways.
For more information visit our drains common project or contact your local planning authority.
Planning permission may be required for external insulation if it impacts the external appearance of the building. If materials are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the house, then permission will likely not be required.
Listed buildings will require listed building consent for any significant work.
If you live in a Conservation Area or other protected area you will need to apply for planning permission before making changes to the outside of your house.
Further information and building regulations advice is available on Planning Portal. Read our external walls common project.
A roof window (or skylight) is fitted flush within the slope of a roof, while a dormer projects outward, creating additional headroom and floor space.
Both can be installed under permitted development but must meet specific size and position limits to qualify.
Also consider building regulations for a new dormer, find out more on Planning Portal
A council’s planning department, known as the local planning authority (LPA), is the local government body responsible for managing and overseeing the planning system in a specific area.
You can use the search tool on Planning Portal to find the contact details for any local planning authority in England and Wales.
A single storey rear extension can fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission may not be required providing it meets certain criteria.
In terms of height, the extension must:
- Be no taller than four metres at its highest point
- Have eaves no higher than the eaves of the original house
- Not exceed the height of the original dwelling
Read about planning permission for extensions on Planning Portal
Ask another question
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
