Find out if you need planning permission for a steel building in the UK. Our guide covers size limits, commercial vs agricultural use, and the consequences of non-compliance.
When Is Planning Permission Needed?
Planning permission for a steel building depends on several key factors such as the building’s size, location, and intended use. Some steel buildings fall under the Permitted Development Rights, especially in agricultural or rural settings. Agricultural buildings, such as farms, that are under 465 square metres don't need planning permission as long as they comply with specific height restrictions and distance regulations.
If the building is being built in a conservation area, a national park or near a listed building, then planning permission is usually needed, regardless of the building’s size or use. Additionally, large steel buildings, especially those bigger than 4 metres, are more likely to need planning permission. This is because height restrictions are particularly important near boundaries or neighbouring properties.
Steel Buildings That May Not Need Permission
In the UK, certain types of steel buildings don't require planning permission, depending on their size, use, and location. Steel buildings that are used for agricultural purposes, such as barns, machinery storage, or animal shelters, often qualify for permitted development and don't need planning permission.
If the structure is under 465 square metres, is more than 25 metres away from a road, and not within designated protected areas such as national parks or conservation zones, it typically won't need planning permission. However, the building must solely be for agricultural use and on land larger than 5 hectares.
Steel buildings that are intended for temporary use, such as event storage, site offices, or temporary shelters, can also be installed without planning permission if they are used for less than 28 consecutive days. After this period, a formal application for planning permission is required.
Small steel buildings, such as tool sheds, garages, or bike shelters, can also be installed under household permitted development rights. These structures must be used for domestic purposes and not exceed 4 metres in height or cover more than 50% of the garden area.
How Building Size and Use Affect Permission
In the UK, the size and intended use of a steel building play a crucial role in determining whether planning permission is needed or not. While some smaller or agricultural structures can qualify for permitted development, others, especially larger or commercial-use buildings, often need formal approval from the local planning authority.
Generally, the larger the steel building is, the more likely it is to need planning permission. If a building is taller than 4 metres, is within close proximity to neighbouring properties or boundaries, or is a multi-storey building, planning permission is needed due to its potential impact on the surrounding area.
The use of the building is just as important as its size when determining your planning requirements. Buildings that are used for agriculture typically don't need planning permission, but commercial, industrial, or residential steel buildings do. Additionally, if a steel building changes the use of the land, such as converting open ground into a workshop or office, it will need planning permission.
What Happens If You Don’t Get Permission?
Failing to obtain planning permission for a steel building in the UK can lead to serious consequences. While some structures can fall under the Permitted Development Rights, any building that's constructed without approval risks enforcement action from the local planning authority.
If a steel building is installed without the necessary planning permission, the local council has the authority to issue an enforcement notice. This legal order requires the landowner to either apply for permission or remove the structure entirely. Ignoring an enforcement notice is also a criminal offence and can result in prosecution or financial penalties.
In some cases, you may be able to submit a planning application after the steel building has been constructed. However, there's no guarantee of the application being approved, especially if the building doesn’t comply with the local planning policies or if it impacts neighbouring properties, the environment, or protected areas.
Failing to secure the necessary planning permission can also lead to expensive legal disputes and fines. In addition to potential court proceedings, you may incur the costs of modifying or demolishing the building, as well as rebuilding it in compliance with your local regulations.
We provide fast, reliable steel building installation services in Colchester, Essex and UK Wide. Our experienced team ensures you receive high-quality workmanship, fast delivery times and custom-made steel structures that meet your specific building requirements.