Planning
Garden planning permission in the Cotswolds National Landscape: the complete reference
On Cotswolds designated land, permitted-development rights are tighter than elsewhere. This reference brings together what each common garden project needs, from decking to garden rooms to walls.
In short
The Cotswolds is a National Landscape, which is designated land, so permitted-development rights for garden projects are more restricted than in an ordinary location. Many projects that are permitted development elsewhere need an application here, side extensions and some outbuilding rights are removed, cladding and materials are restricted, and an Article 4 direction can remove permitted-development rights entirely in a specific area. This reference sets out, project by project, what to expect on Cotswolds designated land. Always confirm the exact status of your property, because the boundary is precise and conservation areas and listings add further layers.
The thresholds
Where the line sits
The Cotswolds is one of the most carefully protected landscapes in England, and that protection shapes what you can do in a garden here. As a National Landscape it is designated land, which narrows permitted-development rights across the board: projects that would be permitted a
| Project | On Cotswolds designated land |
|---|---|
| Decking | Permitted up to 0.3m but check; raised decking needs permission |
| Patio at ground level | Usually permitted; materials expected to suit the setting |
| Garden room or outbuilding | Outbuilding limits apply and are tighter; some positions removed |
| Garden wall or fence | 2m, or 1m by a road; conservation and listing can restrict further |
| Driveway | Permeable needs none; impermeable over 5 square metres needs permission |
| Cladding and materials | Restricted, to suit the protected landscape |
Source: Gardenscape. Figures as of 2026-06-01.
Yes, no, or it depends
Scenarios in plain language
Not everything, but enough that you should never assume. Permitted-development rights are narrower, some are removed, and an Article 4 direction can remove more, so we confirm the exact position for each property.
The council holds the designations, and we check the National Landscape boundary, any conservation area and any listing for the property before designing, so nothing is assumed.
No. It means more projects need an application and the design has to respect the setting, which is exactly the heritage-sensitive work we are known for.
The local layer
Designated land and Article 4
The Cotswolds is one of the most carefully protected landscapes in England, and that protection shapes what you can do in a garden here. As a National Landscape it is designated land, which narrows permitted-development rights across the board: projects that would be permitted a few miles away can need an application, certain outbuilding positions and side extensions are removed, and the materials and cladding you can use without consent are restricted, all to protect the character of the place. On top of that sit two further layers. Most of the historic towns and villages, including Tetbury,
A note
General guidance, not advice. Rules vary by site, and Article 4 directions or conditions can change what applies. Check with your local authority and the Planning Portal.
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