Some garden sheds can be built without a planning application, but every relevant condition must be met. Size alone doesn't decide it. The outline below concerns houses in England; ask your local planning authority about the rules for your property in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Main checks for England
Planning Portal's outbuilding guidance sets out these limits among others:
| Feature | Main permitted-development limit |
|---|---|
| Storeys | Single storey |
| Eaves | Up to 2.5 m |
| Overall height away from boundaries | Up to 4 m for a dual-pitched roof; 3 m for other roofs |
| Within 2 m of a boundary | Up to 2.5 m overall |
| Position | Not forward of the principal elevation |
| Land coverage | No more than half the land around the original house covered by additions or other buildings |
These are screening checks, not a complete permission decision. Read the source before relying on them.
Properties needing particular care
The Planning Portal guidance identifies further restrictions for listed buildings and designated land. Its householder allowances do not apply to flats and maisonettes, and some converted or newly created homes are excluded. Local conditions or an Article 4 Direction can remove rights.
GOV.UK explains that Class E covers buildings used for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of a house. It doesn't provide a route to separate living accommodation. A building attached to the house is considered under different provisions.
Before placing an order
Make a sketch showing the proposed location, boundaries, roof shape and dimensions. Include existing outbuildings and extensions. Discuss uncertain measurements or the effect of the base with the planning authority before committing to a model.
Planning permission is separate from building regulations, land ownership and any tenancy or other consent. Passing one check doesn't settle the others. GOV.UK notes that a lawful development certificate can establish that a proposal is lawful without a planning application.
Most garden sheds don't need planning permission, but size, height and position limits apply, and listed buildings and some areas differ. Check before you buy. Read this broad reminder alongside the England scope and exceptions above.
For the equipment side of the decision, use what size shed you need.
Sources and further reading
- Planning Portal: England outbuilding rules · Checked 2026-10-25
- GOV.UK: permitted development technical guidance · Checked 2026-10-25