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Pergolas are a popular garden feature, but if you’re considering a pergola installation, you might be wondering: do I need planning permission for this? Frustratingly, the rules around pergolas and planning permission are a little confusing, and whether or not you need to submit plans to your local council will depend on several factors.
To help you out, in this blog we’ll cover some questions you need to ask yourself in order to determine whether you’ll need to seek permission before installing a pergola in your outdoor space.
The planning permissions requirements around a pergola installation will largely be based around the size and nature of the structure. Because pergolas are secured to a pre-existing surface, rather than being directly built into the ground, they can be moved or disassembled easily and therefore don’t typically require planning permission. However, your size of choice could well be the exception to the rule.
If the pergola is installed within 2 metres of the boundary of your property, the maximum height can be no greater than 2.5 metres. If your proposed pergola exceeds this height, is enclosed with a roof or walls or is intended as a permanent fixture, it’s likely that planning consent will be required. This is because the pergola could be viewed as an extension of your property.
Planning permission might also be required if you’re intending to install your pergola at the front of your house. Because pergolas are typically seen as back garden structures, placing one at the front of your property near the street could well impact the external appearance of the home. In this instance, planning permission would be necessary.
When positioning your pergola, bear in mind that the height could impact sightlines for adjacent properties. It’s worth speaking with neighbours to avoid any conflict as their view could be obscured even if the pergola meets planning rules.
If you live in a conservation area, or if the structure is going to be installed on the side of your house between the property and the boundary, you’ll probably need planning permission. Both of these areas that the council wants to particularly control development in, so your pergola would likely need approval first.
Similarly, planning permission will be required if your property is a designated listed building. Any external changes to a listed building require consent in order to preserve its historical integrity.
Fitrite manufactures and install a wide range of premium-quality garden pergolas for clients nationwide. Crafted from 100% aluminium, our pergolas are designed to not only look fantastic, but also stand the test of time. Get in touch with us today for more information.
