It is one of the first questions people ask us. The honest answer is that it depends on your property and where the pergola will go. This guide explains what usually decides it, so you know what to check before you order.
This is general information, not legal advice. Your local council always has the final say.
Permitted development
Many garden structures in England can be built without a planning application under what are called permitted development rights. Whether a pergola qualifies depends on things like its height, how close it sits to your boundaries, how much of the garden it covers and where it stands in relation to the house. The rules are different in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
When you are more likely to need permission
- Listed buildings, and homes in a conservation area, National Park or other protected area.
- Flats and maisonettes, which do not have the same permitted development rights as houses.
- Properties where permitted development rights have been removed, which is common on some new-build estates.
- Commercial premises such as restaurants, pubs and hotels. These usually need permission, and outdoor seating can also involve licensing.
- Structures that are particularly tall, sit close to a boundary or cover a large part of the garden.
What about Building Regulations?
An open pergola does not usually need Building Regulations approval. If you enclose it fully with glass sides and use it as part of the house, Building Regulations may apply. Your council’s building control team can confirm this for your project.
How to check for your property
- Use the interactive guides on the Planning Portal.
- Contact your local council’s planning department and describe the structure: its size, height and position.
- If you want certainty, apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. It confirms in writing that planning permission is not needed.
What we have seen
In our experience, most of the residential projects we have installed have not needed planning permission, while commercial venues and homes in conservation areas more often have. Every property is different, so please check before you order. We cannot guarantee whether permission is needed for yours.
How we can help
We do not give planning advice, but we can supply drawings and product details to support your own application, or one prepared by your architect or planning consultant. Get in touch for a free consultation by phone, WhatsApp or video call.