Made popular in the home makeover programmes of the 90s, timber decking remains as popular with today’s homeowners and developers alike. A great way to add versatility to your outdoor space, decking is a versatile addition to any home and can elevate your outdoor space to the next level.
When planning new decking, however, whether you need to apply for planning permission from your local authority might be the furthest thing from your mind. To save you extra time and possibly anxiety, we set out here all current permission guidelines and requirements you need to know about.
Planning permission Vs. building regulations
Before going any further, let’s look at the difference between planning permission and building regulations.
Building regulations – building regulations or building regs control and govern the quality and standards of any new buildings, as well as protecting the safety of all individuals involved.
Planning permission – local authorities grant planning permissions in order to maintain the standard of new builds, to ensure they will not adversely affect the surroundings and its value.
The majority of decked areas that are of the appropriate height and that are installed safely, will not require planning permission from the local authority. However, there are some exceptions.
When does decking need planning permission?
Decking falls under ‘permitted development’ which is building activity that is allowed without planning permission. This means that your decking does not need planning permission provided the following criteria apply:
- The decked area must be less than 30cm above ground level. This ensures that neighbouring gardens will not be overlooked.
- The total area of all extensions, outbuildings and decked areas must be less than 50% of the total garden area.
- The decking must not occupy land that is ‘forward of a wall forming the principal elevation’. In other words, must not be situated in front of the house.
Inevitably, there are exceptions under the following circumstances and, in these cases, planning permission is required:
- In conservation areas including an AONB (Area of Outstanding National Beauty), national parks and World Heritage Sites, decking can be no more than 10 square metres where it is 20 metres from the house.
- With listed buildings, decking is not permitted on either side of the property, or within the curtilage of the property (the land immediately surrounding it).
The above guidelines apply to houses only and we would always recommend that you consult up to date information available on the government’s planning portal, where you can also find your local planning authority.
Consulting with your neighbours
Where any proposed decking does require planning permission, it is always advisable and courteous to inform your immediate neighbours. Even where your decking complies with the permission criteria, if it impacts them in any way, they have the right by law to refuse their permission.
Decking supplies from Witham Timber
We supply a wide range of pressure treated timber decking products which are all carefully selected from graded timber. From decking boards and decking joists to decking handrails and decking spindles, we carry stock of everything you need, including decking fixings. For any advice, our staff is available to offer help and assistance over the phone on 01205 359188 or via email at sales@withamtimber.co.uk