Planning
How high can a garden wall or fence be without planning permission?
Up to 2 metres high anywhere, but only 1 metre if it is next to a road used by vehicles or the footpath beside it.
In short
In England you can build or replace a garden wall, fence or gate up to 2 metres high without planning permission, with one important exception: if it is next to a highway used by vehicles, or the footpath beside such a highway, the limit is 1 metre. Listed buildings and some conservation areas have tighter rules. Walls and fences must also be kept in a safe condition.
The thresholds
Where the line sits
The headline is simple: 2 metres almost everywhere, 1 metre where the wall or fence runs alongside a road used by vehicles or the pavement next to it. The lower limit by the road is about sight lines and safety, not appearance. These limits apply to any boundary structure, inclu
| Location | Maximum height | Planning permission |
|---|---|---|
| A boundary not next to a road | 2m | Not needed below this |
| Next to a road or its footpath | 1m | Not needed below this |
| A listed property | Varies | Consent likely needed |
Source: Gardenscape. Figures as of 2026-06-01.
Yes, no, or it depends
Scenarios in plain language
Yes. The height rules apply to any wall, including Cotswold dry stone walling. The same 2 metre and 1 metre limits apply.
Above the limits you need a householder application, currently £272 for works within the curtilage from 1 April 2026, plus the Planning Portal service charge.
Within the permitted-development limits no application is needed, so there is no formal objection process, though boundary ownership and party matters are a separate question we are happy to talk through.
The local layer
Designated land and Article 4
The headline is simple: 2 metres almost everywhere, 1 metre where the wall or fence runs alongside a road used by vehicles or the pavement next to it. The lower limit by the road is about sight lines and safety, not appearance. These limits apply to any boundary structure, including traditional Cotswold dry stone walling, brick walls and timber fencing. Above the limit you need a householder application, currently £272 for works within the curtilage from 1 April 2026. Listed buildings and some conservation areas are the exception, where consent can be needed for work that would be permitted
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.
Arrange a consultation
Send a few photographs and a sentence about the site. We will reply personally.