Timber decking guide - Planning and building regulations

Deck structures are often considered to be exempt from planning regulations. This is not always the case. There are a number of specific instances where consent is required prior to building a patio, terrace or deck and these are set out below:

Situations Requiring Planning Permission

• Where the deck is situated within 20 metres of a highway.
• Where the deck platform is more than 300mm (1 ft) from the ground (effective 1 October 2008).
• If the structure would affect the amenity value or privacy of neighbouring properties.
• If the deck is attached to a listed building or situated in a conservation area or National Park.

Building regulations

Building regulations should be assumed to apply to every structure that requires planning permission.

In addition to the situations set out above, other restrictions have been known to apply, including limitations to the overall deck area in relation to the existing property or garden area and the constraints of established building lines. For example, in England (after 1 October 2008), surfaces, including decking, are not permitted to cover more than 50% of a property's garden.

With the exception of ground level decks, property owners should always check that planning regulations do not apply to their proposed structure.

In addition to contacting the Local Authority, neighbours who may be affected by the structure should also be informed. Neighbour objections are the most usual reason for planning refusal or restrictions.

The TDA publishes a leaflet (Ref TB 02) about the statutory requirements (planning and building regulations) applying to decks. Download a copy by clicking here.