When do you need planning permission for decking? Experts reveal when you do and when you don't

Grey decking with rug and table and chairs on it and wooden fence in background
(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re thinking of building a new deck, you’ll probably not be thinking about planning permission for decking. And, most of the time, it's not something that you need to worry about. But, there will be times when you will need to.

Typically, your next great garden decking idea will fall under permitted development. But factors can come into play that will determine whether you need to get planning permission for your new deck. Size and height are the two common factors that will decide the outcome.

Peter Ivanov, Gardening and plant expert at Fantastic Gardeners
Peter Ivanov

Peter has been a gardening franchisee at Fantastic Gardeners (part of Fantastic Services) for 8 years, growing his knowledge throughout these years. He now manages six teams, which are top performers in their field.

Amy Reeves

Amy is an interiors and renovation journalist. She is the former Assistant Editor of Homebuilding & Renovating, where she worked between 2018 and 2023. She has also been an editor for Independent Advisor, where she looked after homes content, including topics such as solar panels. 

She has an interest in sustainable building methods and always has her eye on the latest design ideas. Amy has also interviewed countless self builders, renovators and extenders about their experiences. 

She has renovated a mid-century home, together with her partner, on a DIY basis, undertaking tasks from fitting a kitchen to laying flooring. She is currently embarking on an energy-efficient overhaul of a 1800s cottage in Somerset.

With contributions from