Emily Rivers
Fencing and other property boundaries are covered by planning permission rules. These rules dictate both the height, location and other aspects of the fences. Some fences can be covered by permitted development rights. The rules are different for replacing existing fences and erecting new ones.
The following article has information about how planning permission relates to fencing. Read on to find out more about whether your fencing project will need it.
What is planning permission?
Planning permission is a process where the local authority can officially consent to building work. To get planning permission, you need to apply to your local authority. However, some building works are protected by permitted development rights, which means they can be undertaken without needing to seek planning permission.
Fences covered by permitted development rights
New fences are covered by permitted development rights providing they meet the following requirements:
- If they are next to a road they must be under 1 metre in height
- Elsewhere, they must be under 2 metres in height.
New fences that are over 2 metres in height will always require planning permission. If you are in a listed building or conservation area permitted development rights will not apply and you will generally need to apply for planning permission or listed building consent. If your property is not listed but the fence backs on to a listed building, you will also have to apply for planning permission or listed building consent.
Other fencing work
You will not need to apply for planning permission to alter, maintain or improve an existing fence, as long as you do not increase its height. Removing a fence will also not need planning permission, unless you are in a conservation area or have a listed building.
Planting new hedges does not generally require planning permission, but check with your local authority. Restrictions do apply to hedges as they can block driver sightlines on neighbouring roads. Also, the local authority may put specific restrictions in place on the maintenance of the hedge to ensure that it does not cause a nuisance to others.
Boundary disputes
When carrying out any work to fences, it’s important to speak to the owners of any neighbouring property. This will ensure they are happy with the work, and may lower the chances of them objecting should you have to make an application for planning permission.
Make sure you find out who the owners of a boundary fence are. You cannot carry out work on fences that are not on your property. If you are erecting a new fence, make sure you site it on the correct boundary of your property. You may need to refer to original site plans.
Fencing is a common area that causes disputes between neighbours. If you’re concerned about your proposed fencing work, speak to your local authority to make sure you’ve got the right information, and speak to your neighbours. If you do have to make a planning application, the neighbours do have the right to object. Keeping them informed and listening to their concerns can reduce the chance of this happening.
You can find out who your local authority is here.
