Planning Permission For Outdoor Projects In Surrey And London
Planning permission is a way of getting approval from local authorities for building or landscaping projects. Most building projects will require planning permission, especially when building tall or expansive structures, but landscaping can be more of a grey area.
Landscaping and garden design typically focus on your own back garden, so permission is not always required. Usually, permission is needed if your project will infringe on other households, buildings and public spaces, so you may think your garden is safe.
However, some landscaping projects cannot be done without obtaining the necessary documents and approval from local authorities. As a premier landscaping and construction company in Surrey and West London, Urban Landscapes has first-hand experience with the requirements of local authorities in these regions.
Working with our team can make the process of obtaining permissions and seeking approval easier. In this post, we are sharing everything you need to know about planning permission for landscaping projects and how to determine whether it is needed for your upcoming renovation.
Why Planning Permission Matters
Planning permission is more than just paperwork – it is vital to ensure the safety and efficiency of landscaping projects. Permission is required ahead of large renovations, builds and construction work to ensure projects align with local building and visual standards.
Construction projects need to be authorised to ensure they will align with the wider community’s needs and values, as well as being performed safely. While this may seem like an unnecessary step in your garden projects, you must seek permission if required before doing any work.
Failure to obtain planning permission can result in legal issues, such as fines and even legal charges based on the local authority and severity of the case. Without the right permission, local authorities can also demand the demolition of your new structure or construction, meaning, at the very least, all of your hard work has been wasted.
To save yourself time, hassle, and possible charges, make sure you get planning permission before doing any large landscaping project.
Common Garden Projects That May Require Planning Permission
Now that you understand the importance of planning permission, it is time to explore what projects require it. Garden projects do not always require permission, as they are usually small-scale and done in private spaces.
However, some common renovations require authorisation from local authorities, and this should be obtained before any building work is done. These projects can include:
- Garden Buildings: Garden rooms are incredibly popular with all kinds of homeowners as they are versatile. Whether used for a home office, gym or playroom for the kids, any garden building that is either over 2.5 metres (around 8 feet) or is being installed close to boundaries between properties or public land will require permission.
- Raised Decking: Decking can be a great way to make use of your uneven garden or extend your living area, but it will require permission if it is over 30cm.
- Fencing and Garden Walls: Fences and garden walls that are likely to be over 6.5 feet may require permission, even if done on private land. Permission is also likely to be required when building fences or garden walls near main roads and public areas.
- Front Garden Paving and Driveways: While explicit permission is not always required for paving and driveways, these surfaces need to align with the local authority’s drainage rules, such as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) guidance.
- Pergolas or Gazebos: Similar to fencing and garden walls, any garden structures that are over 6.5 feet may require permission before they can be built.
Gardening Projects And Permitted Development (No Permission Needed)
Some landscaping and construction projects do not require planning permission and can be done freely. These projects are part of your Permitted Development Rights as a homeowner, which outlines the various home renovations or extensions that can be done without permission.
In our experience, many gardening projects do not require permission, such as:
- Most low-level patio and paving installations
- Decking that is below 30 cm in height
- Any garden or outbuildings that are under 2.5 metres tall and are not used as a living space. This can vary based on their placement and proximity to public spaces or other properties
- Fences under 6.5 feet
Within these boundaries, you are free to design and install a range of garden projects, as long as you do not live in a conservation area or own a listed building.
Other Restrictions: Listed Buildings And Conservation Areas
For some areas across Surrey and West London, you may face additional restrictions.
If you are based in areas such as Richmond, Ealing, Kensington and Chelsea, then you may face additional restrictions that affect your landscaping projects. This is because of both conservation areas and listed buildings.
Both of these restrictions are in place to preserve areas of natural beauty and heritage value. In such rich areas as these, your home may be affected by either a conservation area or a listed building outline because of the value it provides to the community as a whole.
With these restrictions, any renovation requires planning permission from local authorities. Even minor modifications can cause issues if you do not get permission first, due to the value of preserving local character and historical value.
Do I Need Planning Permission For My Garden Project?
Due to the importance of obtaining planning permission, it is vital to check whether this applies to you ahead of your garden project. You can do this by checking with your borough council’s planning portal, which can often be found online or by calling the main council.
Alternatively, ahead of your upcoming garden project, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. These are half the cost of full planning permission and can protect your home during construction. Unlike planning permission, this certification is not required ahead of construction work, but it can give you peace of mind and additional protection if needed.
Working with professional landscapers such as Urban Landscapes is another great way to check whether you need permission. We work closely with local authorities and will get the necessary permission ahead of all construction projects. With our experience and connections, we make the application process easy and can support you throughout.
How Urban Landscapes Can Help
As a premier landscaping company, we can help you in many ways regarding planning permission for your garden projects. We are a local landscaping company that has experience across Surrey and West London, working with various borough councils and local authorities.
Choosing us for your next project gives you access to planning permission support in the form of:
- Professional advice regarding what’s allowed under Permitted Development and how to benefit from these rights
- Support during the planning permission application process by providing drawings, blueprints and garden designs
- Connections to local authorities for a streamlined process
By providing professional guidance from start to finish, Urban Landscapes can ensure your garden project is a hassle-free success.
Conclusion
Planning permission may be required for your landscaping project, based on the scale and location. While the rules can vary between boroughs, local authorities across Surrey and West London typically have the same guidelines.
Under these guidelines, specific structures and projects need planning permission, but there are plenty that do not. Working with local landscaping experts, like Urban Landscapes, ensures your project is a success. We can help you obtain any necessary permissions and ensure that all construction is done per the region’s guidelines.
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