Do You Need Planning Permission For A Pergola?

A pergola is a perfect addition to your outdoor space, extending the use of your garden, adding shade when needed, and letting sunlight pour over al-fresco meal times.

We’d love to be able to easily answer the question of ‘do I need planning permission for a pergola?’, but the truth is, it can be a tricky area. On the whole, you don’t always need planning permission for pergola structures. However, there are some caveats. This guide will explore the rules around pergola planning permission and explain when you do and don’t need it.

When do you need planning permission for a pergola?

There are several instances where you will need to obtain planning permission for pergola installations. These relate to:

The size and height of your pergola play a significant role in determining whether you'll need planning permission. If your pergola falls into one or both of the below, you might need to make an application for planning permission.
- Is your pergola more than 2.5 metres in height?
- Will it be situated within 2 metres of a property boundary?
Structures that extend beyond a certain height can alter the external appearance of your property. Councils typically want houses to be in keeping with other properties and the local area, so this can trigger the need for approval. Find out about any specific height restrictions applicable in your area before you set to work.
If your property is a listed building, you’ll know all too well about the red tape required to make alterations - it’s the same for installing a pergola. As listed buildings are protected due to their historical or architectural significance, any changes can affect their status.

You will, therefore, likely require planning permission for pergola structures to be added on, or next to, a listed building. You’d need to ensure the pergola complements the building and doesn't significantly alter its historic charm.
Already got a designated spot for your pergola? Planning permission might be required if your location is a little out of the ordinary. Installing a pergola on a veranda, balcony, or on decking can have a bearing on planning permission. Structures on elevated areas might end up overlooking neighbouring properties. There might be some privacy concerns with this, or worries about changes to the external appearance of your home.

If your pergola is planned for these types of spaces, you'd be wise to get in touch with the local planning authority to find out more.
If your property is a listed building, you’ll know all too well about the red tape required to make alterations - it’s the same for installing a pergola. As listed buildings are protected due to their historical or architectural significance, any changes can affect their status.

You will, therefore, likely require planning permission for pergola structures to be added on, or next to, a listed building. You’d need to ensure the pergola complements the building and doesn't significantly alter its historic charm.

we believe a pergola

adds space and class

to gardens.

When do you not need planning permission for a pergola?

In many cases, you won’t need planning permission for a simple pergola set-up. If you are planning to add one to your garden and want it to be as hassle-free as possible, you generally won’t need planning permission if:

The maximum height of the pergola is 2.5 metres or less
It will be built within 2 metres of your property boundary
You have a detached house and the pergola is being installed behind the original house, not as an extension
The pergola is considered a temporary structure or is easily removable
It falls under Permitted Development Rights, which often cover pergola installations, as long as certain conditions are met

These are standard rules to follow for pergola planning permission, but there may be exceptions even to these basic guidelines. Always check with your local planning authority or planning portal to make sure you’re complying with specific regulations related to your location.

Is a pergola a permitted development?

You might have heard the term ‘permitted development’, especially if you’ve had any work done to your property, and are now curious to know if this extends to a pergola. Permitted development refers to certain rights that allow you to undertake specific changes or additions to your home without seeking planning permission.

In many cases, pergolas can be a part of ‘permitted development’, meaning they don’t need formal approval. Here's when a pergola typically falls under permitted development:

Location - Must be within the property's boundary and not on designated land
Maximum height - Should not exceed 3 metres
Roof style - Cannot have a raised platform, balcony, or A-shaped roof
Boundary - Must maintain an appropriate distance from the property boundary and adjacent property

Choosing a pergola

While you might have to jump through a couple of hoops before you install your pergola, planning permission needn’t put you off. In many cases, you won’t need it at all and can get straight on with creating your new outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining space.

At White Stores, we have a range of pergolas in various sizes to suit your home and garden decor. Discover weather-resistant metal pergolas that go the distance, sleek white pergolas that instantly elevate your outdoor area, or pergolas with roofs for unpredictable weather. Browse our pergolas now to start your garden transformation.