Do I Need Planning Permission for Gates in Hampshire?
One of the most common questions we get at our Romsey workshop is about planning rules. While most installations fall under Permitted Development, getting it wrong can lead to costly council enforcement notices.
You can usually install gates up to 2 metres high if they are on a private boundary and not next to a public highway.
If your gates are next to a highway used by vehicles (or a public footpath), the height limit drops to 1 metre without permission.
Special Considerations
- Listed Buildings: Any new gate or fence within the "curtilage" of a listed building requires formal consent.
- Conservation Areas: Standard gates are usually fine, but removing an old wall or gate to install a new one may need approval in some Hampshire zones.
- Automation Safety: Electric gates follow the same height rules as manual ones. However, they must be installed with safety sensors to meet UK standards.
Local Hampshire Examples
Southampton: A 1.8m tall Iroko gate on a private driveway usually needs no permission.
Eastleigh: Metal gates over 1m high built directly onto a pavement boundary will need permission.
Winchester: A sliding gate set back 5 metres from the road to allow cars to pull in safely is highly recommended by local councils.