With summer round the corner, lots of us turn our attention to our gardens, planning how we can make the most of our outdoor space to enjoy any sun we’re lucky enough to get! A great addition to any garden is a patio.
For most UK homeowners, adding a patio seems like a straightforward home improvement project. After all, it’s your garden to do what you want with, right? But before you start digging up turf and ordering paving slabs, it’s wise to consider whether your patio might require planning permission. While many patio projects fall under permitted development rights, there are exceptions – and costly consequences if you get it wrong.
Here’s everything you need to know about planning permission for patios in the UK.
Do You Need Planning Permission to Build a Patio?
In most cases, no – you don’t need planning permission to lay a patio in your back garden. Patios typically fall under permitted development, which allows certain types of building work and alterations without applying for planning consent.
However, there are a few situations where permission may be required:
1. You’re Significantly Raising the Ground Level
If your patio raises the ground level by more than 300mm (about 12 inches), it could count as a structure rather than a surface treatment, and that could require planning permission. Raised platforms, decking, and steps can fall into this category.
2. You Live in a Listed Building or Conservation Area
If your home is listed or in a conservation area, different rules apply. Even small changes to your outdoor space may require consent. Always check with your local planning authority before starting any work.
3. You’re Covering a Large Front Garden Area
Laying paving in a front garden? Since 2008, planning permission is required if:
- The new surface is greater than 5 square metres, and
- It's not permeable (i.e. water can't drain through it), and
- You’re not directing water to a suitable drainage area (e.g. a flower bed).
Using permeable materials like gravel, porous concrete, or permeable block paving avoids the need for planning permission in most cases. A surfacing specialist such as Premier Surfacing can advise you on the best way to use permeable materials for your patio or paving.
4. Your Patio Impacts Drainage or Neighbours
If your patio alters the drainage pattern of your property, affects neighbouring land, or causes flooding issues, your local council may intervene, even if you didn’t need permission initially.
Proper drainage should always be considered if you’re undertaking any kind of surfacing project. If you require advice on drainage for your patio, driveway, or any other surfacing, we can help.
What Materials Can Be Used for My Patio?
There are no restrictions on patio materials, but it’s worth choosing something that suits the style of your home, drains well, and meets safety standards, especially if the area will be used for seating or barbecues.
Popular materials for patios include Indian stone, block paving, and resin bound. You can find out more about the benefits of each option here.
When in Doubt, Check
Even if you think your patio is straightforward, it’s always a good idea to consult your local planning authority, especially if your property has any special status or your plans are unusual. A quick phone call now could save you a planning headache later.
Need Help Planning Your Patio the Right Way?
At Premier Surfacing, we offer expert advice and professional paving services across Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire. Our team will ensure your new patio not only looks stunning, but fully complies with UK regulations. Contact us for a free consultation.
