Do I Need Planning Permission For A Summer House

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Summer House?

Summer houses are a great way to enjoy your garden and extend your living space during the warmer months. However, before you start building, it's important to find out if you need planning permission. ### What is planning permission? Planning permission is a legal requirement for certain types of building work. It gives the local authority the opportunity to consider the impact of your project on the surrounding area and to make sure that it meets certain standards. ### Do I need planning permission for a summer house? In most cases, you will need planning permission for a summer house. This is because summer houses are considered to be a permanent structure, even if they are only used seasonally. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. You may not need planning permission if your summer house: • Is less than 2.5 meters high at its highest point • Has a floor area of less than 15 square meters • Is not connected to the mains water or electricity supply • Is not located within a conservation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty ### How do I apply for planning permission? If you need planning permission, you will need to submit an application to your local authority. The application will need to include: • A description of the proposed development • Plans and drawings of the proposed development • A fee The local authority will then consider your application and make a decision within 8 weeks. ### What happens if I build a summer house without planning permission? If you build a summer house without planning permission, you may be served with an enforcement notice. This notice will require you to remove the summer house or make changes to it so that it complies with the planning regulations. You may also be fined or even prosecuted. ### How can I find out if I need planning permission? The best way to find out if you need planning permission for a summer house is to contact your local authority. They will be able to advise you on the specific requirements for your area. ### Conclusion Building a summer house can be a great way to enjoy your garden and extend your living space. However, it's important to make sure that you have the necessary planning permission before you start building. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can avoid any potential problems and ensure that your summer house is built legally.