Do I Need Planning Permission for a Driveway Gate?

Understanding the rules surrounding planning permission is essential to avoid legal pitfalls. In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of planning permission for driveway gates. From height restrictions and design considerations to navigating the application process, we provide a comprehensive guide that clarifies when you’ll need to seek permission and how to do so.

This ensures you can have a brand new driveway gate that perfectly blends aesthetics and security while complying with necessary legal standards.

Understanding Planning Permission

Obtaining planning permission is a legal process aimed at regulating the development and use of property. Planning permission is usually required when building new structures, making significant alterations to existing buildings, or changing the use of a property. Planning permission ensures that structures and modifications are appropriate and in keeping with local planning policies and regulations.

Why is Planning Permission Required?

Gates must complement the existing architecture and streetscape, preventing any disruptions to the area’s overall look and feel. This is crucial in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); they should maintain the natural scenery. Safety is another factor, as gates near roads or public pathways must not pose hazards to pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers.

What are the Planning Rules for Driveway Gates?

Navigating planning permission and ensuring your driveway gates are compliant with regulations is key. Planning rules for driveway gates hinge predominantly on two elements: height and location.

When You Require Planning Permission

Planning permission is required if the gates are adjacent to a highway (which includes all public roads) or a footpath and exceed 1 metre in height. If the gate is located elsewhere on the property, then planning permission is required if the gate is over 2 metres in height. This rule is uniform, but always check specific local variations, particularly when dealing with gates in conservation areas where nearly all changes, including those to gates, garden walls, or boundaries, often require special consent.

You will also need to seek planning permission if your home is either a listed building or is within the curtilage of a listed building, and if your right to repair or install gates and boundaries has been taken away from you.

When You Do Not Require Planning Permission

Planning permission is not required if the gate does not exceed one meter in height, as this is the maximum height allowed by regulations. However, if the gate is to be placed in another location, such as next to an unadopted road, it can be up to two metres tall from ground level.

If you are replacing your current gate with one that is of the same height or shorter, you will not need to seek approval. Additionally, you will not require planning permission from the local authority if you are replacing an existing gate, garden wall, or boundary feature with one of comparable height in the same location.

Approval is also not required if there are no listed buildings on the site or within the property’s curtilage in any way, You will be permitted development permission and won’t require approval.

Why You Might Not Receive Planning Permission

Even if you follow all of the regulations, the materials and design of your driveway gate can impact the likelihood of approval. Opting for a wooden driveway gate that blends seamlessly with the existing boundary feature may be more likely to sail through without special approvals compared to stark, modern electric gates. Remember, it’s not just about personal taste; your gate’s design and materials must harmonise with local planning requirements.

Who Grants Planning Permission for Gates?

In the UK, planning permission is granted by local planning authorities. This typically involves the planning department of the local council, which oversees development control. Property owners or developers must submit a detailed application, which the planning department will review against local and national planning policies.

Always remember that discussions with your neighbours can smooth out the process, creating a harmonious environment even when permission is not technically required.

Always Seek Planning Permission for Gates

If you are unsure in anyway about these potential restrictions and are unsure what criteria your gate or property fits, contact your local fencing authority to avoid illegal construction. They may even grant you special consent.

Speaking to an autoreactive party like this will allow you to receive first-hand information on your specific property and the gate you wish to install.

Can Driveway Gates Open Outward?

As gate installers, we always recommend to our clients that their gates open inward. It not only allows for easier access, but they are often seen as more welcoming.

The Highways Act 1980 governs that gates cannot open outwards onto a public pavement or highway. While the law is quite clear regarding opening onto public highways and footpaths, this doesn’t mean gates cannot open outward. It is possible to locate the gate further up your drive so that it does not create any obstruction when it is fully open. An example where this is necessary would be if you had a sloped driveway, limiting the range of internal motion on a swing gate.

Looking For a Reliable Driveway Gate Installation

At Sussex Gate Services, we supply and install a wide range of driveway gates that comply with local regulations. Whether you choose a traditional swing gate, a space-saving sliding gate, a rustic wooden gate, a modern aluminium gate, a classic wrought iron gate, or a functional 5-bar gate, careful planning and adherence to local guidelines are crucial.

Ready to enhance your property’s security and curb appeal with a new driveway gate? Start your journey today by exploring the options and ensuring you meet all necessary requirements. Get in contact with our friendly team on 01825 705160 or send an email to info@sussexgateservices.co.uk. We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Latest From Our Clients

  • Highly recommend Paul and his team Professional,.efficient, Quality Materials clean and tidy workforce excellent job thanks very

    Stuart French

  • Paul and James have just installed electric gates for us. The whole process went smoothly, and we are delighted with the result.
    Highly recommended.

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Automation of Existing Oak Gates

Here at Sussex Gate Services we also carry out repairs and improvements on existing gates, even if they’re not installed by us! For this project, the client requested the automation of existing oak gates outside their residents.