DIY Builds
Photo by Yan Krukov Pexels Logo Photo: Yan Krukov

How big can a shed be before you need planning permission?

You must apply for householder planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed if: the total area of ground covered will be greater than 50 per cent of the total land around the house. it will be at the front of the house.

Can you put a washing machine in an unheated garage?
Can you put a washing machine in an unheated garage?

Washing machines Be aware there could be problems with condensation resulting from the heat and steam created during use. This can condense on cold...

Read More »
Why does my shed wobble?
Why does my shed wobble?

Your shed wobbles because of low-quality materials, poor craftsmanship, or damage. It's essential to correct a wobbly shed; otherwise, the shed may...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Do I need planning permission?

Flats

You must apply for full planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed in your garden. This includes timber sheds.

Houses

You must apply for householder planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed if: the total area of ground covered will be greater than 50 per cent of the total land around the house

it will be at the front of the house

it will be at the side of a house which is in a conservation area

it will be built in the grounds of a listed building

it will be at the side or front of a house covered by an Article 4 Direction

it will be more than one storey high

it will be more than 4m high with a pitched roof or 3m high with a flat roof. If it will be within 2m of the boundary of the house, it must be 2.5m high

its eaves will be more than 2.5m high

it will include a veranda, balcony or raised platform.

Where can I find more information?

The outbuildings section of the national planning portal has lots of guidance and useful information. You can find more information on the design of garden buildings on page 36 of Camden Planning Guidance 1 - Design (PDF)

Can I get confirmation that I do not need planning permission?

You can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC). This is to prove that an existing or proposed garden building, greenhouse or shed is lawful. Apply for a Lawful Development Certificate to prove an existing or proposed garden building, greenhouse or shed is lawful.

Am I likely to get planning permission?

To find out whether your proposal is likely to be accepted, you can apply for pre-planning application advice.

How do I apply?

You can apply via the national planning portal. To find out what information is required with your application, see making a planning application.

Still not sure whether you need planning permission?

If you need further advice about whether you need planning permission, contact planning advice and information.

What fruit only grows in Florida?
What fruit only grows in Florida?

5 Delicious Fruits Grown In Florida | Florida Rare And Exotic... As America's only subtropical climate, Florida has the lone benefit of growing...

Read More »
How do I keep spiders out of my pole barn?
How do I keep spiders out of my pole barn?

Prevent them from returning by spraying the area with a residual insecticide. Spiders come in from the outdoors, so you should also spray the...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Can you put pressure treated wood directly on the ground?

Ground-contact pressure-treated lumber can be used either above ground or in contact with the ground. Has twice the level of chemical retention and protection compared to above-ground treated wood.

Uses for Pressure-Treated Wood

Decks and fences are the most common uses for treated wood, but it is ideal for a variety of applications. Pressure-treated decking can extend the longevity of wooden walkways, freshwater docks, accessibility ramps and other outdoor structures that are exposed to the elements. You can find a range of pressure-treated wood sizes to match your project as well, so it can be used in many different applications, including custom projects. Ground contact lumber can be used for raised garden beds for ornamental plants. If edibles are to be planted, you can line the pressure-treated boards with plastic. This will keep soil from making contact with the wood. Don't use plastic across the bottom of the garden bed, as that will prevent drainage. Natural cedar and fir can be used for raised garden beds for edibles.

Pressure-treated wood should not be used for any indoor applications.

You can paint or stain treated lumber for decks or any structure, but it is important that the wood be dry enough to accept a coating. To determine if it’s sufficiently dry, sprinkle water onto the wood. If the droplets are absorbed, the treated wood is ready to be painted or stained. If the water beads on the surface, you should wait a few days before attempting to stain it the shade of your choice or brush on a coat of paint. When looking at non-structural applications, there are a number of synthetic products like composite decking available. These can work as well as many types of pressure-treated wood depending on the application.

Is 600 sq ft a tiny house?
Is 600 sq ft a tiny house?

Tiny homes are generally designated as being under 600 square feet, but the average size of a tiny house for sale in the U.S. is actually just 225...

Read More »
Can you put concrete straight on soil?
Can you put concrete straight on soil?

Long story short, yes you can pour concrete over dirt. Jul 1, 2020

Read More »
Which side of aluminum foil is toxic?
Which side of aluminum foil is toxic?

In short, science says it makes no difference at all, and there is no correct or incorrect way to use aluminium foil, as confirmed by Robert L....

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
How do I stop the bottom of my car from scraping on the driveway?
How do I stop the bottom of my car from scraping on the driveway?

The good news is that there are two ways to avoid it: Drive over obstacles like curbs or speed bumps at an angle. This requires extremely low...

Read More »