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Building a new deck can greatly enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your home. However, before starting construction it’s important to understand the planning permission and building regulations involved to ensure your new deck complies with all legal requirements.
Planning Permission Requirements
Planning permission determines if you’re legally allowed to build a deck on your property under local planning laws. There are a few key factors that determine if you need permission:
Permitted Development Rights
In many cases, small decking projects are covered under permitted development rights, meaning you don’t need planning permission as long as you meet size and location requirements. Decks are usually permitted if:
- The total deck floor area is less than 30 square metres.
- No part of the deck is higher than 300mm above ground level.
- The deck isn’t attached to a listed building or in a designated area like a national park.
Always check with your local authority to confirm the permitted development rules in your area.
Location and Position
The location and position of the deck is critical. Planning permission is usually needed if:
- The deck would be situated in front of the house.
- It would affect a public right of way like a footpath.
- It would overlook or impact neighbours’ privacy.
Proximity to Boundaries
Most areas specify minimum distance rules from the property boundary for structures like decks. Planning consent is often required if building closer than:
- 2 metres to the rear boundary
- 1 metre to the side boundary
Exceeding Permitted Development Size
If your planned deck exceeds the maximum size limits for permitted development in your area, planning permission will be required through a full application.
Building Regulations for Decks
While planning permission focuses on what you can build, building regulations specify how it must be built to meet legal standards. Even if planning consent isn’t needed, most deck projects will still need to comply with building regulations. Key areas covered include:
Structural Safety
The deck must be structurally sound and able to safely support the expected loads and forces. This involves meeting requirements related to:
- Joists, beams and columns
- Foundations and footings
- Connections and fixings
- Stairs and balustrades
An engineer may be needed to provide certification.
Fire Safety
Decking materials and construction methods must meet fire resistance standards. This includes factors like:
- Material combustibility ratings
- Fire separation from the home
- Stair and balustrade design
Access and Use
Safe deck access and circulation must be provided through features like:
- Minimum stair widths
- Handrails on stairs
- Balustrade height and openings
Guarding is required for any raised deck surfaces.
Weather Resistance
The deck should withstand expected rain, wind, snow, and temperatures. This depends on factors like:
- Joists and board spacing
- Flashing details
- Use of resistant materials
Good drainage and waterproofing is also required.
Electrical Safety
Any lighting, outlets, or wiring installed on the deck must meet electrical safety codes. Common requirements include:
- Using exterior-rated fixtures
- Ground fault circuit interrupters
- Minimum wire gauges and connections
Health and Hygiene
Deck construction should not create health hazards. Requirements may include:
- Allowing for ventilation underneath
- Finishing any exposed wood
- Not using certain toxic treatments
Applying for Planning Permission
If planning permission is required for your deck, here are some tips for the application process:
Draw Up Plans
You’ll need detailed drawings showing the deck’s size, layout, and position on the property. Include elevation views and cross-sections too.
Complete Application Forms
The local authority will have specific forms to fill out with your contact information, property details, and the proposed project specifications.
Pay Required Fees
There is normally a fee for submitting a planning application, which varies by project size and location. This will need to be paid when applying.
Describe Impact
Outline how the deck will and won’t impact the surrounding area. Focus on privacy, appearance, sunlight, drainage, etc.
Expect 8-12 Week Process
It usually takes 2-3 months to receive a decision on your application after it is validated by the council.
Using Building Control for Deck Projects
Building control officers review plans and inspect construction work to verify compliance with building regulations. For deck projects, you’ll need to:
Submit a Building Notice
This formal notice provides details like your contact information, the property address, and your builder’s information.
Provide Project Specifications
In addition to your detailed deck plans, you’ll need to submit information on materials, structural calculations, foundations, etc.
Book Required Inspections
Building control will schedule interim and final on-site inspections to check work at key stages.
Obtain a Completion Certificate
Once your project passes the final inspection and meets all regulations, you’ll receive a certificate of compliance.
Working closely with both planning and building control ensures your new DIY or professionally-built deck meets all essential standards. Considering these regulations upfront prevents costly delays or rework down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a small garden deck?
Small decking projects often fall under permitted development rights. As long as your deck meets location, size, height, and other limits, planning permission usually isn’t required.
What are the planning permission requirements for a large deck?
For larger decks that exceed permitted development limits, full planning permission will be needed. Your application must meet requirements related to size, layout, visual impact, privacy, drainage, and more.
Can I build a deck without informing the council?
Even if planning permission isn’t required, you still need to comply with relevant building regulations. This is done through the building control process, which requires submitting plans and scheduling inspections.
How close can my deck be to my property line?
Setback requirements from boundaries vary, but are usually at least 2 metres from rear edges and 1 metre from side edges. If building closer, you’ll likely need planning approval.
What are the typical building regulations for deck joists?
Deck joist size, spacing, and spans must meet structural safety requirements. Joists are commonly spaced at 400-600mm centres and sized appropriately for the span and load.
Is planning permission needed for a deck with a roof?
Adding a solid roof generally means the structure becomes more like an extension, which requires planning permission. Some exceptions are open pergolas and lean-to style roofs.
Can my existing deck be expanded under permitted development?
Only if the total enlarged deck size remains within the maximum area limit, usually 30m2. Exceeding this or other size thresholds means applying for full planning permission.
What are the fire regulation requirements for decking?
Decking must meet standards for combustibility and fire resistance. Regulations cover the decking boards, substructure, stairs, balustrades, and any roof elements.
Do I need handrails on my ground level deck?
Handrails aren’t mandated on ground level decks, but are highly recommended for safety, especially for steps, stairs, and any raised portions like a hot tub platform.
Who approves the building regulations for a new deck?
Local authority building control officers review plans and inspect construction work on-site to confirm compliance with building regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Check if your deck requires planning permission based on size, location, and other factors.
- Even without planning approval, building regulations must still be followed.
- Deck regulations address structural integrity, safety, health, fire, weather, drainage, and more.
- For larger decks, apply for planning permission and submit a building notice.
- Work with building control throughout construction to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Following proper planning and building regulations leads to quality, safe, and legal deck construction. Understanding the permission requirements and design standards upfront makes the process much smoother, avoiding unnecessary delays. With careful research, drawing up detailed plans, and consulting professionals, you can successfully navigate the deck building process to enhance and add value to your home.