Will I Need Planning Permission For My Shepherd Hut?

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Hut?

Navigating the complexities of UK planning permission is a challenge that many property owners encounter at some point. Whether renovating, refurbishing, or demolishing for residential or commercial purposes, understanding the nuances of planning permission—and recognising when it is necessary—is essential for the long-term viability of any building modifications.

For homeowners seeking to avoid the costs, disruptions, and frustrations associated with traditional property extensions and conversions, adding a structure such as a garden hut may present an ideal solution. In this discussion, we will explore the need for planning permission for garden huts and how to effectively incorporate a wooden cabin into your outdoor space.

Why is a Shepherd Hut an Excellent Alternative?

For homeowners looking to expand their living space, a shepherd hut offers a compelling alternative to conventional property extensions or conversions. These charming, mobile structures provide a unique blend of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and versatility that standard extensions often cannot replicate. Shepherd huts serve as cozy retreats and cost-effective lifestyle solutions.

Unlike traditional extensions, which typically require significant alterations to the main structure and landscaping of the garden, shepherd huts can be installed with minimal effort and disruption. Their portable nature allows for placement in virtually any location within the garden, giving homeowners the flexibility to select the ideal spot for their new living space without extensive groundwork or construction.

While many extensions and conversions fall within a homeowner’s permitted development rights, garden shepherd huts stand out in terms of both time and cost efficiency. Ultimately, a garden shepherd hut offers a quicker and more budget-friendly solution, particularly if you choose a Moorlands Garden Hut.

What Are My Permitted Development Rights?

In essence, permitted development rights grant homeowners in the UK a degree of flexibility and autonomy when making alterations and extensions to their properties. These rights have simplified the often complex planning process for homeowners wishing to undertake certain types of development without needing formal planning permission.

Permitted development rights encompass a broad range of alterations and extensions to residential properties, including small extensions (such as single-storey rear extensions), loft conversions, garage conversions, roof alterations, solar panel installations, and the addition of specific types of outbuildings, such as garden sheds, greenhouses, and summerhouses.

However, it is important to note that permitted development rights are not universally applicable and may be subject to limitations or restrictions. Factors such as the property’s location, its listed building status, specific planning conditions imposed by local councils, and the scale of the proposed alterations or extensions can all affect these rights.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Hut?

Given that shepherd huts are generally classified as temporary structures, there are few regulatory obstacles and planning restrictions when it comes to installing a hut in a private garden. This means you can avoid the time-consuming process of researching planning permissions or your permitted development rights.

Homeowners purchasing a hut for private use (located in the garden of a residential property) or those planning to rent it out for fewer than 28 days per calendar year will not require garden hut planning permission or an exemption certificate.

When Might Planning Permission Be Required?

If you intend to use your shepherd hut as a source of income through rentals for more than 28 days per calendar year, you will need to apply for either planning permission or an exemption. A planning exemption certificate can take up to 12 weeks to obtain, but it is only granted for sites with up to five shepherd huts. In contrast, full planning permission may take as long as 12 months to secure.

If you have further questions regarding garden hut planning permission, please contact the Moorlands team today for a no-obligation conversation.