Planning Permission and Regulations for Building a Deck

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

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.