To avoid needing planning permission, decking should generally be no more than 30cm (approximately 1 foot) off the ground. This height limit is a key factor in determining whether your decking project falls under permitted development rights.
Understanding Decking Height Regulations
The height of your decking plays a crucial role in whether your project requires planning permission. Building regulations are in place to ensure that structures are safe, do not negatively impact neighbours, and comply with local development plans.
Key Height and Area Considerations
When planning your decking, keep the following in mind to ensure compliance:
- Maximum Permitted Height: For decking to be considered "permitted development" (meaning it typically doesn't need planning permission), its highest point should not exceed 30cm (1 foot) from the natural ground level.
- Garden Coverage: The decking, along with any other extensions or outbuildings on your property, must not cover more than 50% of the total area of your garden. This ensures that sufficient green space remains and prevents over-development of the plot.
If your proposed decking exceeds these dimensions, it is highly likely that you will need to apply for planning permission from your local authority.
Why Decking Height Matters
The height of your decking isn't just about regulations; it also impacts various aspects of your outdoor living space and your neighbours' properties:
- Privacy: Raised decking can potentially overlook neighbouring properties, leading to privacy concerns.
- Light: A tall structure might cast shadows, reducing natural light in your or your neighbour's garden or home.
- Drainage: Proper height and construction are essential for effective water drainage away from your home's foundation and the deck itself.
- Aesthetics: The height should complement the existing landscape and the architecture of your house.
- Accessibility: A deck's height can affect ease of access from your home, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Practical Considerations for Decking Height
While the 30cm rule is a regulatory benchmark, the ideal practical height for your decking depends on several design and functional factors:
- Seamless Transition: Many homeowners prefer decking to be level with the internal floor of their house, creating a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors. This often means the decking might be slightly raised.
- Ground Conditions: If your garden has a significant slope, a raised deck might be necessary to create a level outdoor living area.
- Foundation and Drainage: Even for low-level decks, a slight elevation off the ground is crucial to allow for proper ventilation underneath and prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to rot and decay. This can be achieved with appropriate bearers and joists.
- Landscaping Integration: Consider how the deck will integrate with paths, steps, and other garden features.
Planning Permission Checklist for Decking
Here's a quick guide to common scenarios where planning permission for decking is typically required:
| Feature | Requirement for Planning Permission | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Height | YES if over 30cm (1ft) | The highest point of the decking is more than 30cm from the natural ground level. |
| Area Coverage | YES if over 50% of garden | The decking, combined with other extensions, sheds, and outbuildings, covers more than half the total garden area. |
| Location | YES if on front of house | Decking built on land between the principal elevation of the dwelling and a highway. |
| Listed Buildings/Areas | YES | If your property is a listed building, or if it is located in a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or National Park, additional restrictions may apply, and permission is almost always required regardless of size or height. |
It is always advisable to check with your local planning authority or a qualified builder before starting any significant decking project, even if you believe it falls under permitted development. Rules can vary, and specific conditions may apply to your property.
