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🏡Granny Annexe in the Garden – Do I Need Planning Permission in 2025

🏡Granny Annexe in the Garden – Do I Need Planning Permission in 2025 Studio Tashkeel

With property prices rising and multigenerational living on the rise, more people across the UK — especially in the North West — are building granny annexes. But one wrong assumption can delay your build, cost you thousands, or lead to planning refusal.

This expert-backed guide breaks down the 2025 rules, including:

Let’s help you build smart, legal, and profitably.

👵 What Exactly Is a Granny Annexe?

A granny annexe is a self-contained living space built within your property’s garden (the “curtilage” of your dwelling). It usually includes:

It can be attached to your main house or standalone — but once it becomes independent accommodation, it moves into more complex planning territory.

💡 Why Are More Investors and Homeowners Building Them?

For Homeowners:

For Property Investors & Developers:

Especially in locations like Cheshire, Hale, and South Manchester, this flexibility is a highly marketable asset.

📜 Do You Need Planning Permission in 2025?

In most cases: yes, especially if:

But there’s a big exception: some garden buildings qualify under Permitted Development (PD) rights — if strict conditions are met.

✅ Permitted Development Rules for Outbuildings (Class E, 2024)

If your proposed granny annexe is a non-self-contained outbuilding, used only for purposes “incidental to the enjoyment of the dwellinghouse”, it may qualify as Permitted Developmentno planning application required.

⚠️ But every one of these rules must be met:

📍 Location Rules

📏 Size & Height Limits

🧱 Use Restrictions

🛑 Special Exceptions (No PD Rights)

⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

🧭 How to Stay Legal and Build Without Stress

Here’s how to approach your annexe project the smart way:

1. Identify the Type of Use

2. Speak to Your Local Planning Authority (LPA)

Every council interprets PD slightly differently. Get written guidance.

3. Apply for a Lawful Development Certificate

If you’re using PD rights, this protects your project legally — especially during sales, remortgage, or enforcement disputes.

4. Work With an Experienced Architect

An expert architect (like our team at Studio Tashkeel) can:

💰 Will a Granny Annexe Add Value?

Yes — when designed and built properly. Here’s how:

According to the Office for National Statistics, over 2.5 million UK households include multiple generations — a demand trend that’s only growing.

✅ Quick Summary Checklist

 

 Requirement

PD-Compliant?
Within rear garden? ✔️
Under 2.5m eaves (or 2.5m near boundary)? ✔️
Not forward of main house elevation? ✔️
Non-self-contained (no bathroom/kitchen)? ✔️
Covers <50% of garden space? ✔️
Not in AONB/listed/conservation? Depends
Sleeping/cooking facilities? ❌ Needs planning

🙋‍♀️ FAQ: Your Top Annexe Questions Answered

Can I live in an annexe full-time without planning permission?

Not under PD. If it’s a living unit, planning permission is required.

What if I already have an extension — does that count against my 50% garden rule?

Yes. Extensions, garages, and other outbuildings all count toward y

our 50% PD limit.

Do I need building regulations approval?

Often yes — especially for insulation, drainag

e, and electrics. Always check with your local Building Control.

✨ Thinking of Building a Granny Annexe in 2025?

If you’re planning a garden annexe in South Manchester, Cheshire, or anywhere in the North West, our architectural team can guide you every step — from concept to completion.

👉 Book Your FREE 15-Minute Design Call
🌐 Visit Studio Tashkeel
📩 Download the Starter Pack

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