Do you need planning permission for a bike shed?

Urban living can present a problem where cycle storage is concerned. If you're lucky enough to have a front garden, surely it's safe to assume you can put up a small shed to store your bicycle? Not necessarily.

In theory, any structure erected in a front garden requires planning consent. However, in practice you're probably OK unless you live in a strict conservation area or a neighbour complains. If that happens it's likely you'll have to apply for planning permission.

With the price of bike sheds starting at around £300 it's wise to sound out your neighbours before taking the plunge.

Many local councils support cycling so it's always worth giving your local planning team a call - who knows, you may live in an area that installs bike hangers when there's enough of a demand.

Assuming you get a shed, be aware that thieves now target them specifically and as a result, many cycle insurance companies now insist on a high level of door lock security. By contrast, Cycle insurance from the ETA has a sympathetic policy towards keeping bicycles in a shed. You can use any type of lock to secure the door and the bike doesn’t have to be locked while left inside – although if it’s visible through a window you have to cover it with a blanket or similar. Read more about storage requirements.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance, breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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