Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) (Amendment) Order 2026

Overview

This consultation seeks public views on proposed amendments to Class 15 of the Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) Order 2025, which currently covers garden sheds, summer-houses and pergolas that can be constructed under permitted development.

Feedback from a review of permitted development rights undertaken in 2024 highlighted growing demand for larger and more versatile garden buildings - often used for storage, as hobby spaces, or for home-working. At the same time, it was recognised that any changes to permitted development rights around garden buildings would require careful consideration and public input.

The Department is proposing amendments to Class 15 of the Order. The changes include updated height and size limits, the addition of 'garden rooms' to the types of permitted garden buildings, and clearer guidance on the appropriate siting and use of both garden buildings and pergolas. These amendments aim to give homeowners greater flexibility while ensuring that development remains proportionate and continues to protect residential amenity.

The Department now invites comments from all interested stakeholders on the draft Order.

Reasonable adjustments and alternative formats

The Department is committed to equal opportunities and our aim is to make our documents easy to use and accessible to all.

We will take steps to accommodate any reasonable adjustments and provide such assistance as you may reasonably require to enable you to access or reply to this consultation.

If you would like to receive this document as a paper copy, in another format or need assistance with accessing or replying to this consultation, please email planningpolicy@gov.im or telephone +44 1624 686758.

Responding to this consultation

The Department welcomes comments on any aspect of the proposed amendments. The deadline for responses is Monday 23 February 2026.

You can respond to this consultation online by clicking on the 'Online Survey' link below. Alternatively you can download a paper version of this consultation in the 'Related' section below and email it to planningpolicy@gov.im or post it to:

Christopher Long,
Planning Policy Team,
3rd Floor Government Office,
Bucks Road,
Douglas,
IM1 3PN