Q: Are we required to apply for planning permission to construct one of the BillyOh Acorn Garden Pavilions in our garden? Thank you Helen Eadie

A: Generally no, as the building is classed as a 'Portable Building' however it is your responsibility to check with your local planning office. Notable exceptions to the above are listed buildings and conservation areas. It may be that you need to position the building a certain distance from the house, or boundaries, but each area is different, so we're afraid we cannot offer accurate information. Other general guidelines are that it must not take up more than ½ your garden, it must be behind the building line, it should be 1 metre away from the boundary (although most buildings tend to be nearer than this), it should be less than 4 metres high (if it is an apex building) and should be 50 ft away from the nearest road. Check your phone book for your local council and ask to speak to a 'planning officer' to get the exact advice. Another thing to keep in mind, is your neighbours reaction - always keep them informed of what's happening, and be prepared to alter the plans you had for locating the building if they object - it's better in the long run, believe me!