If you’re planning to build a new shed, summerhouse, greenhouse or garage in your garden, here’s what you need to know about planning permission
10:41, 15 May 2026Updated 12:24, 15 May 2026
There are limits(Image: sturti via Getty Images)
With summer just around the corner, many Scots will be considering making improvements to their gardens. Whether it’s a shed, summerhouse, greenhouse or something more substantial such as a garage, there are essential rules that must be checked before any work gets under way.
According to mygov.scot, it’s vital to establish whether planning permission is required. However, it notes that if the structure is for your own home, you live there and the building isn’t intended for commercial use, many projects will fall under what’s known as ‘permitted development’.
The site states: “Most sheds, garages, greenhouses or other similar buildings do not need planning permission. This is called ‘permitted development’.”
It further clarifies that this typically applies when certain criteria are satisfied. These are:
it’s located at the back of the houseit, and any other development, do not take up half or more of the grounds behind your home – known as the ‘rear curtilage’it is not used as a separate home to live init is not higher than 4m at the highest pointany part that’s a metre or less from the boundary is no higher than 2.5msthe eaves (the part where the wall meets the roof) are no higher than 3mit has a footprint of no more than 4sqm if it’s in a conservation area or the grounds of a listed building
Check what the rules are before starting any work(Image: Pexels)
Smaller structures such as bike storage units are subject to different permitted development rules. These are:
it’s located at the front or the back of the houseit is not higher than 1.5mit is not wider than 2.5msit is not deeper than 1.2mit is not on the grounds of a World Heritage siteit’s the only building on the grounds of your home that the permitted development rules apply toit does not block sight of a road or footpath for driversit does not block light to another building
Homeowners are advised to consult the Householder permitted development rights guidance on gov.scot to learn more about circumstances where a development qualifies as permitted development and situations where additional restrictions may apply.
When planning permission might be needed in Scotland
Mygov.scot added: “If the building you want to add is not permitted development, you must apply for planning permission. Find out how to apply for planning permission. You can also contact your local council for further information.” It also noted that additional approvals may be required before commencing work. For instance, your local authority might request building regulation approval.
If the land isn’t yours, you must obtain the landowner’s consent – such as if you’re a tenant or have shared ownership. Should your property be a listed building, you’ll also require listed building consent.
Ultimately, it falls upon the owner to ensure they have secured all necessary approvals.
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