Walls Fences Gates and Access Planning Permission

For fences, gates and walls that are likely to fall within permitted development a lawful development certificate is recommended, so that you know your project is compliant and is protected from any retrospective planning issues, enforcement’s or penalties. Building regulations may also be required depending on the extent of the works.

In order for to fall within permitted development your fence, gate or wall must meet the following criteria.

• If it is next to a highway used by vehicles or a footpath along a highway it must not exceed one metre in height from ground level.
• If it is not next to a highway it must not exceed 2 metres in height from ground level.
• If an existing fence, wall or gate already exceeds these limits you can replace or alter it providing the original height is not increased.
• No part of the site is a listed building or within the curtilage of a listed building.
• No part of the fence, wall, gate or any other boundary involved, forms a boundary with a neighbouring listed building or its curtilage.
• The right to put up or alter fences, walls and gates has not been removed by an article four direction or a planning condition.
• In a conservation area, you might need permission take down a fence, wall or gate. Find out more about conservation areas and when permission may be required.

You do not need planning permission for hedges as such, however if a planning condition or a covenant restricts planting (for example, on “open plan” estates, or where a driver’s sight line could be blocked) you may need planning permission and/or other consent.

If even one of these conditions are not met or there are any constraints which limit or remove your permitted development rights, then you will need to apply for planning permission.

If planning permission is required but the works are completed without first securing the proper planning approval you may face retrospective planning issues. If the local planning authority determine that planning permission was required an enforcement and or penalties may be issued. If planning permission cannot be secured retrospectively the extension may need to be demolished.

If you are in any doubt our expert planning consultants can help. By carrying out a planning appraisal we can advise you on whether planning permission is required, the feasibility, process, timescales, likelihood of success and answer any other questions that you have. Once we know exactly what is required for your project, we will provide you an accurate quote for us to help you.