Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garage?

In the UK, whether or not you need planning permission for a garage depends on size, placement, and usage. For most domestic garages, permitted development rights apply, meaning you don’t need planning permission if certain conditions are met.

How big can I build a garage without planning permission?

• The garage must be no higher than 4 metres with a dual-pitched roof, or 3 metres for any other roof type.

• It must be single storey.

• It can't cover more than half the land around the original house.

• It must be used for domestic purposes only (not business).

• If it’s within 2 metres of a boundary, the height must be no more than 2.5 metres.

• It must be built behind the front wall of the house.

If your property is listed or in a conservation area, different rules may apply, and you should check with your local authority.

Benefits of Garage Conversions and New Garages

Whether you're converting an existing garage or building a new one, there are solid advantages:

• Extra space: Use it as an office, gym, or bedroom.

• Increased property value: A well-done conversion can add real value to your home.

• Secure storage: Keeps vehicles and belongings safe from theft and weather.

• Multi-use options: Modern garages can be flexible and tailored to your lifestyle needs.

Do You Need Planning Permission to Convert a Garage?

In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to convert a garage into living space, if the work is internal and doesn’t involve enlarging the structure.

However, you will need Building Regulations approval, especially if the space is going to be habitable (i.e. bedroom, office, playroom). You’ll need to ensure:

• Adequate insulation

• Proper ventilation

• Structural stability

• Fire safety compliance

If the garage is detached, or you plan to change the external appearance significantly, planning permission may be required.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garage in My Garden?

If the garage is separate from your home and placed within the garden, it can often be built under permitted development, provided it meets the height and placement rules mentioned earlier.

Key checks:                                                      

• It’s not forward of the main house frontage.

• It’s within height limits (usually no more than 2.5 metres if close to a boundary).

• The total ground area covered by outbuildings does not exceed 50% of the garden.

Always double-check if you’re in a conservation area or a listed property.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Wooden Garage?

Wooden garages are treated the same as brick or concrete ones in planning terms. The material doesn’t affect whether you need permission — size, use, and placement do.

If your wooden garage meets the permitted development criteria, no planning permission is needed. However, for large structures or those close to boundaries, it’s worth speaking to your local planning department.

Which Tradespeople Do I Need to Hire for the Job?

Depending on the scale of the project, you might need a mix of the following:

• Architect or designer – for drawings, especially if submitting a planning application.

• Builder or contractor – to carry out the construction.

• Electrician – if you need lighting, power points or electric doors.

• Plumber – if your garage will include water supply or heating.

• Structural engineer – for larger conversions, especially if knocking down walls.

Make sure all tradespeople are qualified and insured, and check reviews or accreditations (like NICEIC for electricians or FMB for builders).

How Much Does a Garage Cost to Be Built or Converted by a Professional?

Costs vary based on size, materials, and location. Rough averages in the UK:

• New single garage (brick): £13,000 – £20,000

• Double garage: £20,000 – £35,000

• Timber garage: from £7,000 upwards

• Garage conversion: £7,000 – £15,000+

Extras like insulation, heating, windows, and finishes can add to the price. Conversions tend to cost less than building from scratch and can give you a high return on investment if done well.

Summary

In the UK, many homeowners assume they need planning permission for any new structure, but when it comes to garages, that’s not always the case. Thanks to permitted development rights, you can often build a garage on your property without needing formal approval — as long as certain rules are followed. The purpose of these rules is to allow minor home improvements without burdening the planning system.

While planning permission might not be necessary, building regulations are a separate issue. If your garage includes electrical work, plumbing, or is attached to your house, you’ll likely need to comply with regulations to ensure it’s structurally sound, energy efficient, and safe to use. Building without approval can lead to complications, fines, or even the requirement to remove the structure.

In short, many garages can be built without planning permission, but you need to be careful with height, size, and location. Understanding these rules helps you avoid problems and get your garage built faster, with fewer delays.