Thinking about adding a pergola to your garden? It’s a brilliant way to transform your outdoor space, add structure and shade, and make it feel like a true extension of your home. But before you get started, there’s one key question: do you need planning permission for a pergola in the UK?

The good news is that, in most cases, you don’t. 

This guide explains the key rules, what to check for your property, and why The Patio Store’s aluminium pergolas are designed to keep things simple and compliant.

What Is Planning Permission and When Is It Needed?

Planning permission is legal approval from your local council that allows you to build or alter a structure. It's designed to keep your project in line with local rules and to ensure that any developments fit in with their surroundings.

However, many small home improvements (including garden pergolas) fall under what’s known as Permitted Development Rights.

That means you can usually install a pergola without applying for planning permission, as long as you meet a few basic conditions.

Pergolas and UK Planning Law: The Basics

A pergola is typically an open-sided garden structure with a slatted or louvred roof that provides shade and definition for seating or dining areas.

They can be made from wood, steel, or increasingly popular aluminium, which offers a sleek, modern look and exceptional durability with minimal maintenance.

Whether planning permission applies depends on:

• the height of your pergola,

• its distance from boundaries, and

• how much garden space it occupies.

When You Don’t Need Planning Permission for a Pergola

Most UK homeowners can build a pergola under Permitted Development Rights without planning permission if they follow these rules:

Boundary = the line dividing your property from neighbouring land. Measure 2 m horizontally from this line to the pergola’s edge.

Check with local council if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or part of a shared development.

Most Patio Store aluminium pergolas are designed with these limits in mind, making them one of the most planning-friendly options available.

Their modular, adjustable designs also make it easy to fit within your exact space, so you can avoid the need for extra approvals altogether.

Republic of Ireland Guidance

Good news,  in most cases, you won’t need planning permission to add a pergola to your garden in the Republic of Ireland. As long as your design stays within these limits, your project should qualify as an exempted development.

For the latest details, visit the Irish Planning Portal or contact your local planning authority.

If you’re unsure, our team can help you confirm which of our pergola designs meet these guidelines before you order.

What About Attached Pergolas?

If you’re installing a wall-mounted pergola attached to your home, it’s still usually covered by Permitted Development, provided it meets the same height and space rules.

You’ll only need formal permission if:

• it projects significantly from the main building,

• alters the appearance of your home’s façade, or

• affects a shared wall or neighbouring property.

Our wall-mounted aluminium pergolas are engineered to stay well within the permitted limits, giving you a stylish, practical option with no paperwork required.

How The Patio Store Makes It Easy

Choosing and installing a pergola shouldn’t be stressful. Every Patio Store product includes clear dimensions and installation guidance, so you can order confidently knowing it fits both your garden and UK planning limits.

If you’re unsure about local rules or how to measure your space:

• Call our team on 028 9068 3399
  

• Visit our Newtownabbey showroom for tailored advice

• Explore our full aluminium pergola range. Shop Pergolas.