Orangery Without Permission: What You Can and Can't Do in the UK

When you think of an orangery, a glass-walled extension designed to bring light into a home while doubling as a garden room. Also known as glasshouse extension, it's not just a fancy sunroom—it’s a structural addition that can change your home’s footprint. Many people assume that because it’s mostly glass, they don’t need permission. But that’s where things go wrong. In the UK, an orangery often falls under permitted development rights, the rules that let you build certain structures without formal planning approval. But not always. Size, location, and design matter more than you think.

Here’s the real deal: if your orangery is less than 4 metres high, doesn’t cover more than half your garden, and stays within 3 metres of a boundary (if it’s a detached house), you’re usually fine. But if you’re in a conservation area, a listed building, or you’re adding a second storey? You’re in planning territory. And no, putting up a few glass panels and calling it a "sun lounge" won’t fool your local council. They’ve seen it all. What you might not realize is that an orangery, a structure historically used to protect citrus trees in winter. Also known as Victorian glass extension, it’s legally treated more like an extension than a shed. That means height restrictions, materials, and even the colour of your roof can trigger a requirement for permission. You can’t just copy a Pinterest idea and assume it’s legal.

Some homeowners try to sneak one in by making it look like a conservatory—but the difference isn’t just cosmetic. A conservatory has over 75% glazed walls and roof. An orangery has a solid roof with a glazed lantern. That small detail changes everything in the eyes of the planning department. If you’re thinking of adding one, check your property’s original deeds. Some homes have restrictions buried in the paperwork that ban extensions entirely. And if your neighbour’s property is close? You might need their consent under the Party Wall Act. It’s not about being sneaky—it’s about being smart. The posts below cover real cases, common misunderstandings, and what actually works when you’re planning a garden structure in the UK. You’ll find advice on materials, design limits, and how to avoid costly mistakes before you break ground.