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Is planning permission needed for a shed in a conservation area?
A shed is classed as an outbuilding which falls under permitted development rights, meaning that it does not require an application for planning permission. They can be built in conservation areas provided they meet the limits set out in legislation.
Specifically on protected land, including conservation areas, no part of the outbuilding can be on the side or front elevation of the house.
A full list of limits and conditions can be read on our outbuildings common project.
Common Questions
Removing a chimney stack may fall under permitted development rights, meaning no application for planning permission is required provided certain limits and conditions are met.
The permitted development right which covers this focuses on the installation, alteration or replacement of a chimney, note that this does not specifically mention removal. Rules in a conservation area may differ, in this instance you should contact your local planning authority directly to understand their position, and if the building is listed, then you will need listed building consent.
To ensure that the local planning authority will allow the removal of the chimney stack you can apply for a lawful development certificate. If approved, then no enforcement action can be taken against the change.
If the chimney is shared (i.e. as part of a terrace), you might need to discuss with relevant neighbour and obtain a party wall agreement.
Building regulations approval may not be required if you are removing the external chimney stack above the roof. If works progress to the internal chimney stack or breasts, then it will require building regulations to understand the structural impact.
Read more about planning and building regulations on Planning Portal.
Yes, under permitted development, a new dormer must not be higher than the existing highest part of the roof. It should also have materials that are in similar appearance to the existing roof. Additional limits apply in conservation areas and on listed buildings. Read about planning permission for loft conversions on Planning Portal
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
You can usually put up new fences, gates or garden walls without planning permission, as long as you stay within permitted height limits. If the structure is adjacent to a highway (including footpaths), it must not exceed one metre in height. For all other boundaries, the maximum permitted height is two metres. Anything taller than these limits will require planning permission.
Installing patio doors at the rear of your house is likely to fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required, provided certain limits and conditions are met.
The doors should be of similar appearance to those previously used, if they are not then generally planning permission will be required.
If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works.
If you live in a designated area such as a conservation area or national park, then additional restrictions may be in place.
If you are unsure whether the work falls within permitted development rights you can check with your local planning authority or submit a lawful development certificate to prove the change is lawful and prevent any future enforcement action.
