When considering making changes to the exterior of your home, it’s generally advisable to check with your local authority beforehand just to be on the safe side, as what you have in mind could fall foul of planning rules and regulations.
As a case in point, take a look at this news article in Metro about a retired couple who have been forced to apply for retrospective planning permission after a neighbour complained to the council about the 25m-long grey composite fence they erected in place of a garden hedge.
The original work cost them £4,500 – and it’s possible that they could be ordered to tear the fence down completely!
What is retrospective planning permission?
This is necessary if building works or changes of use are carried out without prior approval from the local authority.
It is treated like a standard planning application. If this is refused, then an enforcement notice can be sent out that requires the property to be returned to its original state.
When is planning permission required for fences?
Generally, you won’t need to have planning permission for garden fences, gates or walls if they’re under 2m in height.
However, if your house is a listed building, in a conservation area or if your fence is over 1m high and next to a road or footpath, you will need to apply.
It is also advisable to check whether your property has limited permitted development rights in place, as any changes will require approval in this case.
When do you not need planning permission for garden fences?
- If you’re replacing, removing or altering an existing fence of the same height
- If the fence is under 2m in height
- If the fence is in a back garden
- If the fence isn’t next to a public road or footpath alongside a road
- If you’re planting or removing hedges, as the same rules don’t apply in this case