Can You Have An Outdoor Sauna?

Dec 27, 2025

Garden upgrades don’t get much hotter than Outdoor Saunas — and yes, you can have an outdoor sauna in the UK. Most homes allow them without planning permission, but rules, power, and placement matter. Keep reading to avoid costly mistakes and get it right first time.

Legal Requirements and Planning Permission

In most cases, outdoor saunas can be installed in UK gardens without formal planning permission. That said, there are important rules and exceptions homeowners must follow to remain compliant.

Understanding these early can help prevent delays, unexpected costs, or enforcement issues later on.

Understanding UK Permitted Development Rights for Saunas

Outdoor saunas are usually classed as garden outbuildings under permitted development rights. This allows installation without planning permission, provided specific size, height, and placement limits are met.

These rules apply to most standard residential properties across the UK.

Wooden outdoor sauna pod with glass doors and interior benches on stone base.

The 2.5m Height Rule: Staying Within Boundary Restrictions

If your outdoor sauna is placed within two metres of a boundary, it must not exceed 2.5 metres in height. Staying within this limit is essential to qualify under permitted development.

Exceeding it may trigger the need for formal planning approval.

Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: When You Need Consent

If your property is listed or located within a conservation area, permitted development rights may not apply. In these situations, planning consent is often required before installation.

Additional restrictions may exist to protect the character of the area.

The 50% Garden Rule: Calculating Your Total Outbuilding Footprint

Outbuildings must not cover more than 50% of your total garden area. This includes saunas, sheds, summerhouses, and any existing garden structures. It’s important to calculate this carefully before committing to a design.

Building Regulations and Safety Standards

Even where planning permission isn’t required, outdoor saunas must still comply with UK building regulations. These focus on safety, electrics, and structural stability. Failure to meet them can invalidate insurance or create safety risks.

Electrical Safety: Why Your Install Must Be Part P Certified

Any electrical work must comply with Part P of the building regulations. This ensures heaters, wiring, and connections are installed safely.

A qualified electrician should always carry out or certify the work.

Fire Safety: Distance Requirements for Wood-Fired Flues

Wood-fired saunas require careful positioning. Adequate clearance from fences, buildings, and overhanging structures is essential.

This helps reduce fire risk and ensures safe operation.

Ventilation and Drainage: Protecting Your Home’s Boundaries

Proper ventilation prevents excess moisture build-up inside the sauna. Good drainage stops water pooling and protects nearby boundaries or structures.

Both are essential for long-term use and compliance.

Outdoor sauna pod beside hot tub and seating area in garden setting.

Assessing Your Garden and Installation Needs

Before installing an outdoor sauna, it’s important to assess your garden layout, access to power, and overall suitability. Early planning makes installation smoother and more cost-effective. It also helps you choose a sauna that fits naturally into your space.

Choosing the Right Location and Foundation

Your sauna should be positioned on level ground with good drainage. Easy access from the house is also worth considering, especially for year-round use.

The chosen location will influence comfort, privacy, and running costs.

Concrete vs. Gravel vs. Timber: Selecting a Stable Base

Concrete slabs provide long-term stability and are suitable for most sauna types. Gravel bases offer excellent drainage and work well for barrel saunas.

Timber platforms can be used for lighter models when properly treated and supported.

Power Supply: 13-Amp Plug-and-Play vs. 32-Amp Hardwiring

Some saunas can operate from a standard 13-amp socket. Larger or more powerful units often require 32-amp hardwiring and a dedicated circuit.

A professional assessment ensures your supply is suitable and safe.

Privacy and Aesthetics: Positioning for the Best Garden View

Privacy is an important consideration for outdoor saunas. Garden layout, neighbouring sightlines, and screening options should all be reviewed.

Fencing, planting, or careful positioning can improve both comfort and appearance.

Selecting the Best Outdoor Sauna Type for Your Space

The UK market offers a wide range of outdoor sauna styles. Each suits different garden sizes, budgets, and usage preferences. Understanding the differences makes choosing the right option much easier.

Traditional Barrel Saunas: Best for Compact Patios and Drainage

Barrel saunas are popular due to their efficient heat circulation. Their curved shape also helps rainwater run off naturally.

They work particularly well in smaller gardens or patios.

Light wooden barrel sauna with front benches set on grass in garden.

Insulated Cabin Saunas: Maximising Energy Efficiency in UK Winters

Cabin-style saunas provide better insulation and temperature control. This makes them ideal for year-round use in colder British weather. Improved insulation can also help reduce running costs.

Portable and Tent Saunas: The Solution for Renters and Small Spaces

Portable and tent saunas offer flexibility and convenience. They are easy to assemble, relocate, and store when not in use.

These options are especially suitable for renters or those with limited outdoor space.