Homeowners may need planning permission for garden decking

Homeowners may need planning permission for garden decking

» 4th March 2010 «

Individuals thinking about putting down some decking in their gardens have been warned to do their research to gain a clearer picture of whether planning permission is needed or not.

Adding decking to a garden brings many benefits to some homeowners through its versatility, as it can even out sloping ground and extend living space onto the outdoors.

However, Ross Clark was questioned in the Daily Mail in regards to whether the laying of decking required planning permission.

The individual posing the question had initially been told by builders that it was not required, but Mr Clark explained that it depends on the height and amount of decking being put down.

He said: "It is now necessary to seek planning permission if your decking rises more than one foot above the ground or if the area of the decking would cover more than 50 per cent of the garden."

Meanwhile, planning permission is also required should the decking be added to a listed building or situated in a conservation area, alongside if it affects the privacy of neighbouring properties.