Allotment sheds

Before you buy a shed, get your site's written permission and check whether planning permission applies. In Wales, small allotment sheds up to 6 square metres and 2.2m high can be permitted development.

A shed turns a plot into somewhere you can stay a while: dry tools, a kettle, somewhere to sit out a shower. But it's also the thing new plot-holders most often buy too soon. Get permission first, then plan the size and spot.

Two kinds of permission

There are two separate questions, and you may need a yes to both.

1. Your site's permission. Many sites need written permission before a shed goes up. Bolton Council, for example, asks tenants to get written permission before putting up a shed, greenhouse or polytunnel. Your agreement may also set sizes, materials, colours or where on the plot it can go.

2. Planning permission. This is a different system, run by the local planning authority. Welsh Government guidance is clear that the allotment officer or committee's permission is separate from planning permission, and you should get both.

Planning rules by nation

Wales. Since 2020, allotments in Wales have permitted development rights for small sheds and greenhouses. In short:

Plot size	What's allowed without a planning application
125 sq m or more	One shed and one greenhouse
62 to under 125 sq m	One shed or one greenhouse
Under 62 sq m	None, so apply for permission

Each shed or greenhouse must be no more than 6 square metres in ground area (measured outside) and no more than 2.2m high. The rights don't apply in National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas, World Heritage Sites, within the curtilage of a listed building, or close to main rivers. Existing structures count towards the allowance. If you're unsure, ask your local planning authority.

England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. VERIFY: find official guidance on whether allotment sheds need planning permission in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Don't assume the Welsh rules or householder permitted development apply. Until you know, ask your site and your local planning authority.

Size and position

• Think about what goes in it. Tools, a water butt beside it, perhaps a chair. Bigger isn't always better on a half plot.
• Shade. A shed casts shade. Put it on the side where its shadow falls on paths or the compost bays, not your best beds.
• Access. Leave room to get a wheelbarrow to the door.

Our layout guide shows where sheds usually sit on a plot.

Inheriting a shed

If your plot comes with a shed, check it for rot and fix what needs fixing. Your site manager can advise. Ask who owns it, too. It may belong to the previous tenant or the council.

Bases

A shed needs a firm, level base so the floor doesn't sit on wet ground. Ask your site what kind of base is allowed before you order concrete or slabs. For base materials and quantities, Plankley covers shed bases.

Catch the rain

Put the roof to work. Gutter it into a water butt and you've got water by the shed door. See our watering guide.

Security

Keep it simple:

• Don't leave expensive tools or fuel in the shed over winter.
• Ask your site about shared security, such as gate locks and codes.
• Keep a list of what's in there, with photos.

FAQs

Do I need permission to put a shed on my allotment?

Usually from your site, and sometimes planning permission too. In Wales, small sheds on allotments are permitted development within set limits.

How big can an allotment shed be in Wales?

Under permitted development, up to 6 square metres in ground area and 2.2m high, depending on plot size and location. Your site may set a smaller limit.

Can I take my shed with me when I leave?

Ask before you put it up. Your tenancy agreement should say who owns structures and what happens to them at the end.

Your next step

Ask your site secretary for the shed rules in writing and, if you're unsure about planning, your local planning authority. Then mark the spot in the plot planner.