Steel outbuildings are a popular choice for UK homeowners and businesses. Whether you’re considering a shed, workshop, garage, or agricultural storage, these durable and versatile structures are an excellent investment. But before starting your project, it’s essential to understand planning permission and building regulations to avoid fines or delays.
In this guide, we’ll explain when planning permission is necessary, how building regulations may apply, and the steps you can take to ensure your project is fully compliant.
What Is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is a formal approval you need before starting most new building projects in the UK. It ensures that your development is safe and appropriate and follows the rules set by your local council. This process is managed by Local Planning Authorities (LPAs), who assess applications to ensure that new buildings:
Align with local policies: This means your project must fit in with the area’s development plans and zoning rules.
Minimise environmental impact: For example, ensuring the building doesn’t harm wildlife, increase flood risks, or disrupt natural landscapes.
Respect neighbouring properties: Your outbuilding shouldn’t block sunlight, overlook homes, or create noise and disturbances for others.
For steel outbuildings, the need for planning permission depends on several factors, such as size, location, and intended use.
When Do You Need Planning Permission for Steel Outbuildings?
Planning permission isn’t always needed for steel outbuildings, but it’s important to understand when it’s required. Certain rules and conditions must be met, and the decision often depends on the specifics of your project. Local councils assess each case based on factors like the size and height of the building, where it’s located, and how it will be used.
Size and Height Restrictions
The size and height of your steel outbuilding are critical factors in determining whether planning permission is needed. Many smaller outbuildings fall under permitted development rights, but only if they meet specific criteria:
Height limits: Your outbuilding must be no taller than 2.5 metres at the eaves. If it has a pitched roof, the overall height can extend up to 4 metres. Flat-roofed structures or buildings near boundaries are subject to stricter height restrictions.
Related reading: Gable vs. Mono-Pitch: Which Steel Shed Roof Is Best?
Land usage: The outbuilding, along with any other structures, must not exceed 50% of the total land area surrounding your original house. This includes space used by extensions, garages, and sheds.
However, certain larger buildings may fall outside permitted development rights:
Structures over 30 square metres or within 1 metre of a boundary will likely require planning permission and building regulations compliance. This ensures the safety and suitability of the outbuilding for its intended purpose.
Location Considerations
Where you plan to build your steel outbuilding is a key factor in determining whether planning permission is required. Certain areas have stricter rules to protect their character and environment:
If your building is in a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), or close to a listed building, it’s highly likely you’ll need planning permission. This applies even to smaller outbuildings, as these areas are subject to special controls to preserve their historic or scenic value.
The proximity of your outbuilding to property boundaries, public highways, or main roads can also affect planning requirements. For example, if the outbuilding is close to a boundary or directly visible from a road, you may need formal approval.
Purpose of the Outbuilding
What you plan to use your steel building for has a significant impact on whether planning permission is needed.
Residential use: Small outbuildings, such as garden sheds, storage spaces, or garages, may fall under permitted development rights. However, they must meet size and height restrictions and be for non-habitable use.
Agricultural or commercial use: Larger buildings or those used for business purposes are less likely to qualify for permitted development rights. For these types of outbuildings, planning permission is usually required.
Related reading: Why You Should Use Steel for Your Next Commercial Construction Project
Existing Structures on Your Property
If your property already includes other outbuildings, adding a new structure could affect planning regulations. You may require planning permission if the combined size of the new building and existing structures exceeds the limits allowed under permitted development rights.
The total area covered by all outbuildings, including the new addition, cannot occupy more than 50% of the land surrounding your house. These guidelines and shed regulations are in place to prevent overcrowding and to protect the local environment.
What Are Permitted Development Rights?
Permitted development rights let you carry out certain building projects without needing formal planning permission. However, these rights are subject to strict rules to ensure your project stays within legal limits. For steel outbuildings, these conditions include:
Single-storey only: The building must not have multiple levels.
No verandas, balconies, or raised platforms: Structures that could overlook neighbouring properties are not permitted.
Location limits: The outbuilding cannot extend beyond the front of your house or take up more than 50% of the land surrounding your property, including all other existing structures.
For example, a small steel shed for garden storage may meet the criteria for permitted development rights. On the other hand, a larger workshop equipped with utilities or built close to a boundary is unlikely to qualify.
Building Regulations for Outbuildings
Even if your steel outbuilding doesn’t require planning permission, it may still need to meet building regulations. These rules are in place to ensure your structure is safe, secure, and energy-efficient.
Approval under building regulations is usually required if the outbuilding is larger than 15 square metres and either:
- Located within 1 metre of a property boundary.
- Constructed using combustible materials.
- The building includes sleeping accommodations, regardless of its size.
- It incorporates plumbing, electrical systems, or heating installations.
Additionally, fire safety is a key concern for steel buildings. They must maintain structural stability during a fire. Larger outbuildings or those with specific uses may require extra safety features, such as fire-resistant cladding or materials designed to limit fire spread.
How to Get Planning Permission for a Steel Outbuilding
If your steel outbuilding requires planning permission, you’ll need to apply to your local planning authority. Here are the key steps involved:
Step 1: Contact Your Local Planning Authority (LPA)
Start by getting in touch with your local planning authority (LPA) for an informal chat about your project. Share your plans and ask if there are any rules or restrictions you should know about, like tree preservation orders, flood risks, or protected land. This first step can help you spot any potential issues and give you a good idea of whether your project is likely to be approved.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
Once you’re ready to move forward, start preparing your application. You’ll need a site plan showing where the outbuilding will sit on your property. Include a Steel Building Design and access statement that explains how the building will fit into its surroundings and highlights any key design features. You’ll also need to pay the required fee, which usually starts at £206 for smaller residential projects.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online
Use the UK Government’s Planning Portal to submit your application. While the platform provides guidance, the process can still be time-consuming and detailed. If you’d prefer a smoother experience, our team at Carnegie Steel can handle the application for you, ensuring everything is done correctly the first time.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, the LPA will review it.
- For smaller projects, expect a decision within 8 weeks.
- Larger or more complex projects may take up to 13 weeks.
Once you receive approval, you can move forward, knowing your project complies with local regulations. If the application is denied, the decision letter will explain why, and you may be able to appeal.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to obtain the necessary permissions for your steel outbuilding can result in significant problems, including:
Fines or enforcement notices: Your local council may issue penalties if your structure doesn’t comply with planning or building regulations.
Demolition orders: You could be required to tear down the outbuilding if it was built without approval.
Delays and unexpected costs: If your project doesn’t meet regulations, you may need to make costly adjustments or even start over.
These consequences can be both stressful and expensive. To avoid them, take the time to consult with professionals and your local planning authority before beginning any construction. A little preparation upfront can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Expert Support for Your Steel Outbuilding from Start to Finish
Navigating planning permission and building regulations can be overwhelming, but Carnegie Steel Buildings is here to help. We provide Planning and Building Control Assistance tailored to your project so you can avoid confusion and delays.
Our team handles professional designs and documentation, making the application process as smooth as possible. From start to finish, we simplify the steps for you.
With custom steel building solutions that meet your needs and comply with UK standards, we ensure your project stays on track. No delays. No unexpected costs.
>> Contact Carnegie Steel Buildings today to get a strong, reliable steel outbuilding built to last.