How high can a privacy screen be in the UK?

Question

We want to put up a tall privacy screen on our decking to block the view from the road. Is there a maximum height we're allowed to go without needing planning permission?

Ajay · Answer

In most cases, fences, walls and privacy screens can be up to 2 metres (approximately 6ft 6in) high without planning permission.

However, if the screen is adjacent to a highway used by vehicles, the limit may be 1 metre. If the screen is being added to an existing deck, raised platform or structure, different rules can apply.

It’s worth checking with your local planning authority if the screen will take the overall height above 2 metres or if your property has any planning restrictions.

These rules can vary depending on the specific circumstances and local authority guidance.

Sam · Answer

Usually yes there is a maximum height. A fence, wall or similar boundary structure next to a road is usually limited to 1m in height. Anywhere else on your property the limit would be 2m in height.

Dave · Answer

In the UK, the general rule is that anything classed as a “boundary treatment” — fences, walls, screens and similar structures — is limited to 2 metres in height without planning permission. Once you go above 2m, even by a small amount, it normally falls into the category of development that needs approval from your local council. There’s also a specific restriction for anything built next to a highway: if the screen is right beside a road or footpath, the limit drops to 1 metre, because of visibility and safety rules.

A privacy screen on decking can be a bit of a grey area because it’s technically a structure added on top of an existing platform. Councils often treat the total height from ground level as the measurement, not just the height above the deck. So if your decking is already raised, a 1.8–2m screen could push you over the limit. If you want maximum height without paperwork, aim for something around 1.8m from ground level, or consider planting a hedge or tall shrubs instead — living screening isn’t subject to the same planning height rules. If you want, I can outline the pros and cons of hedge screening versus built screens.

Jay · Answer

Im sure it can only be 6ft high without asking for permission from the council

Gediminas · Answer

Hello, it can be up to 2 meters without planning, over 2 meters you need planing.

Blerim · Answer

Up to 2 metres (6ft 6in) high in a rear or side garden
* Up to 1 metre (3ft 3in) high if it faces a road, pavement, or highway

Important details:

* The total height counts, including trellis, decorative tops, posts, or screening panels.  
* Height is measured from the highest ground level beside the structure.  
* If your property is a Listed building or in a conservation area, stricter rules may apply.
* Flats and maisonettes often have fewer permitted development rights and may need permission regardless of height.

Samuel · Answer

It depends on your location, but as far as I’m aware, a pergola can usually be installed within 2 metres of a boundary fence, with a maximum height of 2.4 metres from ground level. This means that, including the decking height, you can generally build up to 2.4 metres without requiring planning permission.

How high can a privacy screen be in the UK?

Follow Us

Cookies

Manage Cookies

Essential cookies

Analytics & Tracking

Advertising