Do I need planning permission for an electric gate?

If you’re considering adding an electric gate to your property, this is probably one of the first questions you asked yourself. Now, one of the first things to bear in mind is that there’s no simple answer to this question, as there are a range of different factors that first need to be considered before planning permission can be given.

Not to fear though, a driveway that satisfies planning criteria can easily be achieved, no matter what your budget or choice of gate. In some cases, you won’t need permission at all! Here at Gate Auto, we’ve put together a brief guide to help you through the planning permission process – so let’s get started, shall we?

What is planning permission?

First, a quick definition of planning permission. If you’re planning on having any building work done on your property, then the chances are, you’ll probably have to make a request to your local planning authority (usually your local council) before proceeding. That requirement is basically there to protect places of historic interest, local character and the environment. For example, if you’re living in a conservation area, Area of National Beauty (AONB) or National Park, for instance, the criteria for planning permission is likely to be a lot stricter.

Permitted developments

When it comes to things like fences, gates, walls and other means of enclosure and security, some of these can be erected without planning permission, depending on how big they are and where they’re placed. For example, if the gates you plan to install open onto a public highway, then each gate can only be one metre in size. If it’s greater than that, you will need to secure planning permission.

However, if you’re replacing an existing boundary feature, then you won’t require planning permission. Keep these factors in mind when thinking about where to place your electric gates, as it could be the difference between you needing planning permission or not!

Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings, National Parks & Areas of National Beauty

If you live in one of these areas, then it’s important to check with your local authority prior to doing any work – even if your gates meet the permitted development criteria, as regulations can differ between postcodes. However, if you’re just planning on replacing the gate with a like-for-like replica, then there shouldn’t be a problem. Essentially, if you’re planning on making any kind of alterations to the structure of your property, then it’s always worth checking with your local authority that it’s okay to do so. If you decide to proceed with a renovation without prior planning permission, then you could face serious trouble down the road. For example, your local authority is legally within its rights to ask you to pull down any building or renovation work that you’ve had done without first applying for planning permission.

Applying for planning permission can be a daunting prospect, but trust us when we say that it’s well worth it in the long run! Here at Gate Auto, our electric gate kits can be applied to any gate set-up, meaning it’s highly unlikely that they’d ever cause any issues from a planning permission perspective!

Here at Gate Auto, we have over three decades of experience in supplying and fitting high-quality gate automation. We can provide you with a wide range of electric gate kits and garage door openers, alongside an array of accessories to ensure you get the most out of your electric gates. Feel free to browse them right here on our site, or give us a call on 01282 677300!