Planning Permission for Patios

Patios are paved outdoor spaces. They look beautiful in the garden and can give a sense of separation to an otherwise open garden. Patios are functional and are great for dining or leisure. A patio surrounded by plants and with comfortable garden furniture will be a gorgeous space to relax or entertain guests. If you want to add a patio to your garden, you can usually do so without needing to apply for planning permission.

There are some regulations that restrict the size and drainage needs of front garden patios. If your patio is going to be in the front garden, you will need to meet these regulations or apply for planning permission. You won’t need to apply for planning permission for patios in the back garden unless it’s a raised patio or you are carrying out significant landscaping work. Read on to find out more about how planning permission rules apply to patios.

What is planning permission?

Planning permission refers to the system by which local authorities can control building work done in their area. For certain types of home improvement work, you have to apply to the local authority to gain planning permission. This is so that the authority can make sure that the building work is suitable for the area. Not every project needs planning permission as some are protected under permitted development rights.

Planning permission for patios

There are no restrictions that apply to patios or paved areas at the rear or side of your property. You will not generally need to apply for planning permission to install patios in these areas of your garden. Patios at the rear or side of your property are permitted developments, so you don’t need planning permission.

If you are planning to install a very large or raised patio, speak to your local authority as restrictions may be in place. Some kinds of substantial landscaping work are restricted in certain areas. Also, raised patios may cause privacy issues which could cause neighbours to complain. It’s important to make sure that any elevation change and landscaping work to support your patio is structurally sound.

Planning permission for patios in the front garden

Planning Permission rules describe the garden as the area of garden between buildings on your property and the road. If your patio is in the front garden, you will need to apply for planning permission if all the following conditions apply:

  • The area is over 5 square metres
  • You use an impermeable surface
  • The water runs from the surface into roadside drains, rather than to a lawn, border or soakaway

If you are planning on installing a patio in the front garden, it’s best to use a permeable surface to avoid having to apply for planning permission. There is a range of permeable hard surfaces available.

If you still want to use a non-permeable surface, you will need to make sure there is enough drainage. To do this, direct the water from the patio surface away to a lawn, border or soakaway. Professional patio fitting companies will be able to help you do this and give you advice on any possible drainage issues. If you plan on fitting a non-permeable patio in the front garden and you cannot direct the rainwater to a suitable drainage area, you will need to apply for planning permission.

So now you know how planning permission may affect your patio. If you have any further questions, speak to your local authority or seek advice from a specialist patio fitting company. There may also be guidance on your local authority’s website.