Paving a front garden in London and Surrey: planning rules and design ideas

A well-designed front garden or path sets the tone for the whole house. Whether you want a Victorian tiled path, a new driveway or a low-maintenance paved front garden, it is worth understanding the planning rules before work starts.

Do you need planning permission?

Under the national rules for houses in England, set out on the government's Planning Portal:

• You do not need planning permission to pave a front garden of any size if you use a permeable surface that lets water drain through, such as gravel, permeable block paving or porous asphalt.

• You also do not need permission if rainwater from a hard surface is directed to a lawn or border where it can soak away naturally.

• If you want to cover more than 5 square metres with a traditional impermeable surface that drains towards the road, you will need planning permission.

These permitted development rights apply to houses only, not flats or maisonettes, and can be removed by planning conditions or an Article 4 Direction. Many streets in Merton, Richmond, Kingston and Elmbridge sit within conservation areas, so it is always worth checking with your local council before you start.

Driveways and dropped kerbs

If you want to park on your front garden, you will also need a dropped kerb approved by your local highway authority. Driving over a pavement without one is not allowed. Walls, gates and fences on the front boundary may need their own approval too.

Design ideas for period homes

• Victorian and Edwardian tiled paths in black, white and terracotta geometric patterns suit many houses in Wimbledon, Putney, Fulham and Chelsea, and can be laid on a properly drained base.

• Porcelain slabs set in gravel give a crisp, modern approach that still drains naturally.

• Reclaimed brick laid in herringbone or basket weave softens a front garden and ages beautifully.

• Clipped box or yew, planted urns and a simple lawn can frame a path without adding hard surface.

Getting the drainage right

Whatever surface you choose, plan where the water goes. Falls should carry water away from the house, never towards it, and away from airbricks and damp-proof courses. In heavy clay soils, common across much of South West London, a soakaway or permeable sub-base can make the difference between a front garden that drains and one that puddles.

Planning a new front garden or path?

Koniu Construction designs and builds front gardens, paths and driveways across South West London and Surrey. See examples on our projects page or send us an enquiry.