BBQ Pod Planning Permission Guide
Everything you need to know about planning permission for BBQ pods and outdoor kitchens in the UK. Understanding permitted development rights, special cases, and regional variations.
Quick Answer
In most cases, no planning permission is required for a BBQ pod in the UK. Our pods typically fall under permitted development rights for garden structures because they are:
- Under 2.5 meters in height
- Single storey structures
- Incidental to the main dwelling
- Not living accommodation (outdoor kitchen only)
⚠️ However, there are exceptions:
Listed buildings, conservation areas, flats, and properties with removed permitted development rights may require permission. Read the full guide below to understand your specific situation.
Permitted Development Criteria
Your BBQ pod must meet these criteria to qualify for permitted development (no planning permission required)
Height Restrictions
Allowed:
Maximum 2.5m high (or 4m for dual-pitched roof)
Not Allowed:
Over 2.5m high if within 2m of boundary, or exceeding 4m anywhere
Location
Allowed:
Anywhere in garden, side or rear of property (behind building line)
Not Allowed:
Forward of principal elevation facing highway (front garden usually)
Coverage
Allowed:
Up to 50% of garden area (including other outbuildings)
Not Allowed:
More than half of your garden covered by structures
Type
Allowed:
Single storey, outbuilding, incidental to dwelling house
Not Allowed:
Living accommodation, separate dwelling, balcony/raised platform
Our BBQ Pods Are Designed to Meet These Criteria
All our BBQ pod models (A-Mini, A-Plus, A-Max, A-Ultra, A-Pro) are designed to comply with UK permitted development rights, making installation straightforward for most residential properties.
View All ModelsSpecial Cases & Exceptions
These property types may have additional restrictions or require planning permission
Listed Buildings
Listed building consent is almost always required for any external changes, including garden structures.
What You Need to Do:
Contact your local planning authority before proceeding. Provide detailed drawings and heritage statement.
Conservation Areas
Additional restrictions apply. Permitted development rights may be limited, especially for structures visible from the street.
What You Need to Do:
Check for Article 4 directions in your area. May need planning permission even if under normal size limits.
Flats & Maisonettes
Permitted development rights do not apply to flats or buildings containing flats.
What You Need to Do:
Planning permission required. Also check lease terms and obtain permission from freeholder/management company.
Leasehold Properties
Even with permitted development rights, your lease may restrict garden structures or require landlord consent.
What You Need to Do:
Review lease terms and obtain written consent from freeholder before installation.
Regional Variations
Planning regulations vary across UK nations
England
Permitted development rights apply as outlined above. Some local authorities may have additional restrictions.
Scotland
Similar permitted development rights exist but with different size limits (maximum 4m high, maximum 50% garden coverage).
Wales
Follows similar rules to England with some variations in conservation areas and national parks.
Northern Ireland
Different permitted development regulations apply. Check with your local council for specific requirements.
If You Need Planning Permission
Here's how to apply for planning permission for your BBQ pod
- 1
Check Local Authority Requirements
Visit your local planning authority's website. Search for their planning application guidance and fee schedule.
- 2
Prepare Required Documents
You will typically need:
- Completed application form
- Site location plan (scale 1:1250 or 1:2500)
- Block plan showing proposed location (scale 1:500 or 1:200)
- Elevation drawings of the BBQ pod
- Design and access statement
- Photographs of existing site
- 3
We Can Help with Technical Specifications
BBQ Pods UK can provide detailed technical specifications, dimensions, and professional drawings to support your planning application.
- 4
Submit Application
Submit online via the Planning Portal or directly to your local authority. Pay the application fee (typically £206 for householder applications in England, varies by region).
- 5
Wait for Decision
Standard processing time is 8 weeks for most applications, or 13 weeks for major applications. Monitor your application status online.
📞 Need Help with Your Application?
Contact us for technical specifications, dimensions, and drawings to support your planning application. We've helped dozens of customers successfully obtain planning permission.
Get Expert AdvicePlanning Permission FAQs
Can I install a BBQ pod without planning permission?
Yes, in most cases you can install a BBQ pod without planning permission if it meets permitted development criteria: under 2.5m high, single storey, behind the building line, and covering less than 50% of your garden. However, exceptions apply for listed buildings, conservation areas, and flats.
What if my neighbour objects?
If your BBQ pod qualifies as permitted development, neighbour objections cannot prevent installation. However, it's good practice to:
- Discuss plans with neighbours beforehand
- Ensure your pod complies with all criteria
- Consider positioning to minimize impact
- Be respectful of boundary distances
If planning permission is required, neighbour comments will be considered by the planning authority.
How do I check if permitted development rights apply to my property?
To verify your permitted development rights:
- Contact your local planning authority and request a "Certificate of Lawful Development" (optional but provides certainty)
- Check your property deeds for any planning restrictions
- Search for Article 4 directions in your area (removes certain permitted development rights)
- Verify if you're in a conservation area or if your building is listed
Do I need building regulations approval?
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. For BBQ pods:
- Generally not required for detached garden structures used for outdoor cooking
- May be required if the pod has electrical or gas installations (our professional installation meets all safety standards)
- Gas Safe registration is required for gas connections (all our installers are Gas Safe registered)
- Electrical work must comply with Part P of Building Regulations (our installations are certified)
Will a BBQ pod add value to my property?
High-quality outdoor living spaces like BBQ pods can add significant value to your property. Estate agents report that premium outdoor kitchens can increase property value by 5-15%, particularly in homes with good-sized gardens. The key factors are quality of construction, design, and how well it integrates with your garden and lifestyle.
Ready to Get Started?
We'll provide all the technical specifications and support you need for your planning journey.