Planning Permission

In many cases, Abtech steel sheds, stores, etc. will not require planning permission and may be considered permitted development providing certain criteria are met.

  • The building must not extend forward of the main elevation of the original house
  • Must not be living accommodation
  • Must be single story with a maximum eaves height of 2.5m and an overall height not exceeding  4m
  • The total area of outbuildings to be considered as permitted development, including existing sheds, etc. must not exceed 50% of the area of land around the original house.

Additional restrictions will apply on listed or designated land and some councils may have local restrictions for their region.

If in doubt, contact your local council planning office or visit their website for up to date information (www.planningni.gov.uk/index/advice).

Building Control Approval

If Building Control Regulations apply in your  area, your Abtech shed will normally be exempt, providing it meets the following conditions:

  • The floor area must not exceed 30m²
  • Must not contain sleeping accommodation
  • Must be sited at least 1m from any boundary or must be made from  substantially non-combustible materials
  • Must not be attached to an existing dwelling

If you are in doubt as to whether you  need to make a building control application or not, contact your local building control office who will  be happy to help.

Please note: Building Control regulations can change so it is always a good idea to check their website for more information.

Finally: Just because a shed is bolted down, this does not make it a temporary building and exempt it from planning or building regulations. If in doubt, ask your local planning or building control office (www.buildingcontrol-ni.com).