To report to the planning authorities?

[FairfaxAikman]

Neighbour in the third garden along from us has started building what looks to be a large summerhouse. The peak of the roof is easily 14ft as it towers above the normal garden shed in the garden directly next to them, and takes up about a fifth of their garden space at least - it's huge!
I searched but there doesn't appear to be a planning application.

It's going to cast a shadow into their immediate neighbour's garden and while that aspect won't affect us, it is very visible and not particularly nice looking.
I'm also worried that it would set a precedent.

WIBU to report them to the council or should I just mind my own business.

Definitely report it

I’d have money on it being for their teenage son so they can move their elderly grandparent out of a care home. Go ahead as it directly affects your life.

Report. I’ve just reported my neighbours for similar.
Second time they have built without planning permission. Last time was an awful rear extension.they got away with it after having to make some alterations. It is a bloody eyesore. If they get away with it again it makes a mockery of the whole system.

It may be within permitted development and not require planning permission. Distance from boundary may be 2m or more. It may take up less than 50% of the garden area... you mention 1/5th at the moment.

If it blocks light to someones home then that may be a reason for an objection.

It's not 2m from the boundary. It's right up against the fence.

Got to be pretty petty to complain about a summer house a few gardens over I’d say. Let their immediate neighbours complain if they have an issue with it. Don’t affect you apart from view a few gardens down 🤷🏻‍♀️

Have a look at your council website to find out about permitted development rules. I'm not conversant but I was considering a garden office so I do know a building of that height right next to a boundary would not be compliant.

You might as well enquire in case they are renting out as shed with beds, or moving in family members without proper facilities.

YANBU. Report. If it’s legit they have nothing to worry about.

@FOJN permitted development is not more than 2.5m high at the boundary. The sides are easily at least that but the rise on the roof will definitely be above that.

If it's a summerhouse it wouldn't normally need planning as not classed as a permanent structure... I think they only need it if over 4m for the roof and taking over 50% of the garden.

Where we are, the max height if within 2m of the boundary is 2.5m. Surely their direct neighbours will have already reported it?

Blustery work only began this afternoon. I get on with their NDN so I'll ask their thoughts when I see them tomorrow

A structure of that size should have resulted in a letter from the council inviting you to reject or accept the proposal. I’ve had such a letter from a neighbour at the rear of our property.

2.5 metre is max height next to a boundary.

Definitely report to your council planning department. Ours has an on line form which can be completed and there are definite rules about height, proximity to boundaries etc. I speak as the survivor of a dispute about a tree house with our NDNs which left both parties bruised and battered.

Fairfax It may need Building Regulations too.
www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/43/outbuildings/2

Councils don't care.

I know mine doesn't give a shit about anything. Sad but true.