Do you need planning permission to install a pergola?

If you’re thinking about adding a pergola to your outdoor space, one of the first questions that might come to mind is whether you need planning permission. Although pergolas are a fantastic way to enhance your garden, they can be quite large; therefore, before you start building, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations that may apply. Planning permission requirements can vary depending on factors such as the size, height, and location of your pergola.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you determine whether you need planning permission for your garden upgrade. Exploring general UK planning regulations and what to do if your pergola falls outside of development rights, we’re here to help you understand the rules in advance, so you can confidently design your perfect outdoor space without unexpected legal issues. 

Can I put a pergola in my garden in the UK?

The rules around installing pergolas can be a bit confusing, as there are varying factors that come into play when it comes to deciding if you are permitted to build this structure. Some pergolas can be installed without approval from the local council, whereas others may require you to obtain consent.

The first step to this process is to determine whether planning permission is required as, depending on the scale, some pergolas are considered ‘permitted development’ and do not need permission if they are within certain limitations. These limitations refer to the size, height and location of the structure. Below, we have outlined these key factors that go into deciding whether planning permission for a pergola is required. 

Consider the size of the pergola 

The size of the pergola you choose to install can have a significant impact on whether or not you will need planning permission. As a general rule, the pergola must not cover more than 50% of the land surrounding the house. In regard to the dimensions of this structure, the height of the pergola must be no more than 2.5m tall if it’s within 2 metres of the boundary. If you choose to install the pergola further away from the boundary of the property, it can be up to 3 metres tall.

Take into account the location

Although pergolas are mostly installed at the back of your property, if you are considering installing one at the front of your home, you will most likely require planning permission to do so. This is due to the potential impact it may have on the appearance of your home and how this would then affect neighbouring properties and the general area. You should also take into account the area you live in, as some homes in conservation areas may require planning permission if it affects the space surrounding your property. Similarly, if your property is a listed building, consent would be needed to make any changes like adding a pergola, in order to preserve the historical integrity.

How close can a pergola be to a neighbour's fence?

If you are building a pergola on your property, there are no legal requirements for how close it can be to a neighbour's fence, however, there are restrictions on the height. As mentioned above, legally, a pergola should be no more than 2.5 metres tall if it is placed within 2 metres of the boundary of your property. Although there are no legal requirements or planning permission needed when it comes to the proximity of a pergola to your neighbours, it is worth considering discussing this installation with your neighbours prior.

While this is not legally required, it allows neighbours to raise any concerns about obscured views that may cause conflict. Having an open conversation about your plans with your neighbours will allow you both to address things proactively and maintain a positive relationship. It’s important to note that if the pergola obstructs any natural light or causes overshadowing to your neighbour's property, in some cases, they may be entitled to take legal action.

Can I put a roof on my pergola?

Yes, in most cases, you are permitted to put a roof on your pergola without the need for planning permission as long as it stays within the pergola height and location requirements.  Pergolas, even with a roof, are considered a temporary structure and therefore don’t require planning permission as long as they adhere to the criteria. If the pergola is within 2 metres of the boundary of the house, even with a roof, it should be no more than 2.5 metres high, however, a pergola with a pitched roof can be up to 4 metres high.

Below are a couple of our best-selling pergola options available here at ATM Living.

Neptune Deluxe LED Aluminium Pergola - 3m x 4m 

 Zeus Pro Motorised Roof Aluminium Pergola - 3m x 4m 

How do I obtain planning permission for a pergola?

If after reading this guide, you have come to the conclusion that you do need planning permission for your installation, then obtaining this in the UK is typically done through your local council.  If your intended pergola falls outside of the permitted dimensions or placements, then you must contact your local council for more information, or head over to the online planning portal to fill out an application.

The application will require you to provide a detailed description of your project and include any further documents like site plans or elevation drawings if necessary. You must include the height of the pergola, how far away it is from the boundaries of your property, whether the building is listed and how much land it will cover. Keep in mind that these applications may take time.

Find the right pergola for you at ATM Living

Pergolas are not only a great way to provide shade to your outdoor space but they also create a stylish focal point to your garden. Here at ATM Living our collection of pergolas are all within the permitted height requirements so you can install one in your home without worrying about planning permission. If you’re interested in adding one of these stunning structures to your outdoor space, browse through our full range of pergolas available here at ATM Living.