Can you build a garden room if you have restricted access?
Do I need Planning
Adding a garden annexe is a great way to create self‑contained living space in your garden—ideal for family use, guest accommodation or even rental, but whether you need planning permission depends on several key factors:
Definition
A building joined to or associated with a main building, providing additional space or accommodation.
Permitted Development (PD) Rules and When You Don’t Need Permission
Under Class E of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015, many garden buildings do not require planning permission, providing they meet these conditions:
The annexe is ancillary to the main home (i.e., used by the homeowner or family, not a separate dwelling)
Single-storey only.
Does not cover more than 50% of the garden area (excluding the house footprint)
Height limits:
Up to 2.5 m if within 2 m of a boundary.
Otherwise up to 3 m, or 4 m for a dual‑pitched roof
Must be sited to the rear of the house and behind the principal elevation
No verandas, balconies or raised platforms, and no inappropriate materials in conservation or Article 4 areas
When Planning Permission Is Required for your surrey home
Under Class E of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015, many garden buildings do not require planning permission, providing they meet these conditions:
The annexe is a separate dwelling
It’s in a Conservation Area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Green Belt, National Park, or World Heritage Site.
The total floor area exceeds PD limits or the height exceeds PD thresholds explained above
There are many conservation areas withins surrey including in
Why it matters
Building without required permissions can result in enforcement notices or costly removal. A correctly permitted and regulated annexe, on the other hand, adds value and avoids future complications
Our Expert Advice
If you’re based in Surrey, we recommend:
Confirm your local PD rights and restrictions with Surrey County Council or your borough/district authority.
Submit a full planning application if the annexe is self-contained or in a restricted area.
- Contact our in-house planning department who can advise on your circumstances
This ensures your annexe project is both legally compliant and professionally executed.
