Wondering if you need planning permission for a Garden Room?
Garden Rooms are a fantastic way to add extra space to your home without the hassle and expense of a traditional extension. But before you start planning your dream Garden Room, it’s important to know whether you need planning permission.
In most cases, you will not need planning permission for a Garden Room in St Albans. This is because Garden Rooms are considered to be outbuildings, and there are permitted development rights for outbuildings.
Even if you don’t need planning permission, you will still need to comply with building regulations. This means that your Garden Room must be built to certain safety and structural standards.
Understanding Permitted Development Rights
Garden Rooms usually fall under the category of outbuildings, which often means they do not require planning permission as they are covered under permitted development rules, specifically class E.
These rights are conditional and subject to specific rules and criteria.
When Planning Permission is Required
- Property Characteristic – If your property is a listed building, or if the Garden Room covers more than 50% of the land around the original house, planning permission is necessary. Additionally, if the Garden Room has a raised platform or balcony, exceeds a certain height (more than one storey or 3 metres high), or is positioned at the front of your property, you will need to seek planning permission.
- Usage and Functionality – If the Garden Room is self-contained, intended for everyday living, and includes sleeping accommodation, planning permission becomes a requirement. On the other hand, Garden Rooms intended for incidental use, such as a studio, shed, or summer house, typically do not require planning permission.
- Location and Size – Specific rules regarding the location and size of the Garden Room can influence whether planning permission is needed.
- Designated Area – In designated areas like World Heritage Sites or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are additional restrictions and requirements. In these cases, the maximum size and location of the Garden Room relative to your house play a crucial role in determining the need for planning permission.
Check Your Permitted Development Rights
It’s crucial to verify if your property has permitted development rights. These rights might not be available if you live in a flat, maisonette, or other types of shared buildings. Knowing your property’s status in terms of permitted development rights is the first step in understanding what permissions you may need for your Garden Room project.
Seek Professional Advice
Given the complexity surrounding planning permissions and building regulations, it is always advisable to seek professional advice.
Consult with local planning authorities or Garden Room specialists for clarity to ensure that your project adheres to all legal requirements.
Professional contractors, at PMG Garden Rooms, can assist in determining the specifics of your situation, considering the type of property you own, the intended use of the Garden Room, and other relevant factors.
To Conclude
While many Garden Room projects do not require planning permission due to permitted development rights, there are significant exceptions based on property characteristics, usage, size, and location. Ensuring compliance with these regulations is important for a legally sound and hassle-free project.
As you plan your Garden Room, remember to consult with experts and consider all relevant factors to make your dream space a reality within the bounds of UK planning laws.
Ready to bring your Garden Room vision to life?
Contact PMG Garden Rooms for expert guidance and bespoke solutions that seamlessly blend with your property and lifestyle. Let us help you navigate the planning process effortlessly, ensuring your Garden Room journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
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