Do I Need Planning Permission for a Pool Enclosure?
If you’re thinking about adding a beautiful enclosure to your outdoor pool, you might be concerned about jumping through the planning permission hoops. The good news is, it’s not as daunting as you might think. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about obtaining planning permission for a pool enclosure.
Understanding planning permission for pool enclosures
Whether you need planning permission for your pool enclosure isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It’s a bit like British weather — it depends on a few things. Let’s break it down.
Permitted development rights
Good news for many homeowners: small swimming pool enclosures often fall under what’s known as “permitted development rights”. This means you might not need to go through the full planning permission process if your enclosure meets specific criteria.
Take our Arcus Verona enclosure, for example. These sleek, compact structures are less likely to require planning permission, making them an attractive option for many pool owners.
Size and height restrictions
Planning folks tend to get a bit twitchy about big structures, so there are some rules:
- Enclosures should not exceed a certain height (typically around 4 metres for a pitched roof or 3 metres for other roof types).
- The structure should not cover more than 50% of the land around your house.
Don’t worry, though — at Arcus Products, we’ve got enclosures in all shapes and sizes. Whether you want something that barely skims the water or a proper pool palace, we’ve got you covered.
Location matters
Where you plan to place your swimming pool enclosure can affect whether you need planning permission. As a general rule:
- The enclosure should not be positioned forward of the principal elevation of your house
- There may be additional restrictions if you live in a conservation area or your property is a listed building
Tailored enclosures for UK regulation
Look, we know all this planning permission stuff can be a headache. That’s why we’ve designed our enclosures with UK rules in mind:
- Low-profile enclosures
Our Verona range is perfect for those seeking a sleek, unobtrusive option that’s less likely to require planning permission. - Retractable pool enclosures
Fancy a retractable enclosure? These can change shape, which may be viewed more favourably by planning authorities due to their adjustable nature. - Bespoke pool enclosures
Got a tricky garden or specific ideas? We’ll create a custom enclosure that keeps both you and the planning office happy. - Half and full-height enclosures
While these larger structures may be more likely to require planning permission, whether it is half height or full-height, they will offer maximum protection and year-round usability for your pool.
Steps to ensure compliance
To make sure you’re on the right side of planning regulations:
- Check with your local authority
Before making any decisions, contact your local planning office. They can provide specific guidance based on your location and proposed enclosure. - Consider professional advice:
If it all seems a bit much, an architect or planning consultant can be worth their weight in gold. - Building regulations
Remember, even if you don’t need planning permission, your pool enclosure may still need to comply with building regulations - Get It in Writing
If your enclosure falls under permitted development, think about getting a Certificate of Lawful Development. It’s not mandatory, but it can provide peace of mind and be useful if you decide to sell your property in the future.
When it comes to planning permission for a pool enclosure, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Have a chat with your local council, maybe get some expert advice and then you can dive into your new pool enclosure project without any worries.
At Arcus Products, we’re here to help you find the perfect enclosure that not only makes your pool look great but also keeps the planning permission folks happy. From low-profile designs to large, striking enclosures, we’ve got something for everyone.
Find your perfect pool enclosure today and get in touch to make your vision happen.