Garden Sheds

Garden shed questions

Do I need planning permission for a shed?

Sheds are normally considered to be ‘permitted development’ and so don’t require planning permission to erect. That said, there are a number of rules determining how big your shed can be and where you can locate it. For example, the apex of the roof of a shed or garden building cannot exceed 2.5m, its overall size cannot constitute more than half the total outdoor space within the boundary of your property, and you’re not normally permitted to build a shed in your front garden without permission. If your building is listed, further restrictions apply. If you’re at all unsure, check with local planners before going ahead with your erection.

What base do I need for a shed?

For smaller sheds up to 10’x8’ in size, a wooden base provides a sufficient platform to keep the structure clear of the ground and stop it from distorting. For larger sheds, you need a more substantial base constructed from paving slabs or concrete. Either option is within the capabilities of a competent DIYer but can equally be undertaken by your local builder. For detailed instructions on building a shed base, please read our comprehensive guide, which provides step-by-step instructions to help you build a suitable foundation for your shed.

How to insulate a garden shed?

Insulating a garden shed begins with a basic solution in the form of bubble wrap. Simple to install using only a pair of scissors and a staple gun, it’s a good option for a quick fix. For more effective ways to keep the heat in and the cold and damp out, consider foil-backed bubble wrap, polystyrene, rock or sheep’s wool, or for a truly snug garden shed, install PIR board – Celotex or Kingspan – and board over the top using tongue-and-groove pine, plywood, or plasterboard.

Can I put a shed in my front garden?

If you intend to erect a shed in your front garden, you need to check with local planners before going ahead. That’s because although building a garden shed falls within the remit of so-called ‘permitted development’, this only applies when it’s located to the rear of your property.

How to get wifi in a garden shed

For a permanently reliable wifi link from your home to your shed, consider running an ethernet cable alongside your power cable in the same trench or conduit. Other methods of getting wifi to your shed include moving your existing wifi router closer to your shed, using plug-in wifi boosters or a powerline adapter which sends the wifi signal through your electric cable. If you have a decent phone signal in your shed, mobile tethering may be a realistic option.

Related content:

Read more about garden sheds on our blog and support pages.

• How to build a shed base
• How to build a wooden shed
• Waltons ultimate shed maintenance guide
• Shed buying guide

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