Garden sheds are the smartest way to add extra storage without extending your home. But if your neighbour builds one right up against a shared fence, it's easy to wonder whether they're actually allowed to put it there – and whether there's anything you can do about it.
Below, we explain whether your neighbour can do this, plus what to do if you think the structure has crossed the line.
Can my neighbour build a shed against my fence?
Your neighbour can certainly build a shed close to a boundary fence without asking for your permission. However, it's not simply a case of building wherever they like. The most important factors are whether the shed stays within permitted development rules and doesn't interfere with a neighbouring property.
‘The fact that a structure sits close to a fence isn't usually the issue – what matters is its size, height and whether it crosses the boundary,’ explains Luke Buckland, property expert and founder of Buckland Building.
One point many homeowners overlook is fence ownership. While a neighbour may be able to build next to your fence, that doesn't automatically give them the right to use it. If it belongs to you, they would not normally have the right to attach a shed directly to it without your agreement.
What are the height rules for a shed?
As with many garden buildings, height restrictions depend on how close the shed is to the boundary.
'Under current planning rules in England, a shed can normally be built right up to a boundary fence under permitted development rights,' says Luke. 'However, if the shed is within two metres of the boundary, it generally cannot exceed two and a half metres in height.'
It's also worth remembering that nearby fences are subject to their own planning restrictions.
'If your fence borders a public road or footpath, it cannot legally exceed a height of one metre without planning permission, while in back gardens, fences can be up to two metres high without permission,' explains Kara Gammell, home insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket.
Installing anything taller without consulting the local authority may lead to an enforcement notice requiring reduction or removal so that it complies with planning rules.
What should I do if I think my neighbour's shed breaks the rules?
If you think your neighbour's shed is too tall or extends beyond the boundary, it's worth checking the facts before making a complaint.
'Establish exactly where the boundary sits and roughly measure the height of the shed,’ advises Luke. 'If it appears to exceed the permitted development limits or encroaches onto your property, your local planning authority should be able to advise whether planning permission was required and whether any enforcement action may be appropriate.'
It is key to remember that planning permission isn't the only consideration. ‘Planning rules, boundary ownership, building regulations and, in some circumstances, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 are all separate issues,’ says Christopher Murphy MBE, garden building specialist and founder of Dunster House.
For example, if substantial excavation is needed close to the boundary or the work affects a shared structure, there may be additional legal obligations even if planning permission isn't required.
Should you speak to your neighbour before building a shed?
Even if a shed complies with planning rules, it can still cause practical problems if it's built too close to a shared boundary.
‘A shed shouldn't be attached to a neighbour's fence or use it for structural support without permission, and features such as guttering, roof overhangs, climbing plants, or privacy screens shouldn't extend onto a neighbouring property,’ says Christopher. ‘These are some of the most common causes of disputes once a garden project has been completed.’
As with most boundary issues, communication is often the simplest solution. If you or your neighbour are planning a shed, have a friendly conversation first, as many problems can be resolved quickly before they become costly.
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