Do You Need Planning Permission for a Carport?

Carports are best described as a structure adjoining a property that combines a roof and posts. Carports are typically used to provide shelter to a car or other vehicle. In the UK, carports are classed in the same categories as outbuildings and may need planning permission depending on the circumstances.

In this article, we explain the requirements for needing planning permission when building a carport. Read on to discover if installing a carport is the right choice for you.

When is planning permission required for a carport?

Most carports can be installed without planning permission, but there are some rules you should take into account before you proceed.

You won’t need to obtain planning permission if your proposed carport adheres to the following rules:

• Your carport is not built on land forward of walls that form the principle elevation
• Your carport is single storey with a maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres and maximum overall height of 4 metres if it has a dual-pitched roof or 3 metres for any other roof, including a curved roof.
• If your carport is built within two metres of a boundary of the curtilage of a building, it must not exceed 2.5 metres in height.
• Your carport must not include any verandas, balconies or raised platforms.
• Your carport must not cover more than half the area of land around the building
• In National Parks, the Broads, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and World Heritage Sites the maximum area to be covered by buildings, enclosures, containers and pools more than 20 metres from the house to be limited to 10 square metres.

If your proposed carport does not adhere to all of the above rules, you will need to contact your local council to obtain planning permission.

How close to the boundary can I build a carport?

You are not permitted to build a carport right next to your property side boundaries due to fire regulations. 

As noted above, you can build your carport as close as two metres to the boundary as long as the carport itself does not exceed 2.5 metres in height.

Is a carport worth it?

Carports are a modern way to protect your car while simultaneously creating a dedicated outdoor living space for when a vehicle is elsewhere. Carports are more minimalistic than garages and are subsequently easier and quicker to install.

But most of all, installing a carport is a great idea because they increase the value of your home. They are a much-loved home improvement that will make your home more desirable to potential buyers. As a result, carports are not just a luxury — they’re an investment.

Get yourself a bespoke carport through Outershade. We’re a leading provider of carports throughout London and the home counties, including Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Berkshire and Kent. Our team offers bespoke design, professional installation and servicing and repairs.

Experience outdoor living your way. Contact our team for more information.