Building a shed in your garden might seem like a simple space saving hack and it can be when you get it right. But one factor many people overlook is where to put it. Shed placement is more important than it looks and needs careful consideration because if you get it wrong, you could end up dealing with damp walls, awkward access, or even planning issues.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what Irish homeowners need to know before picking a location, from basic planning rules to practical placement tips that save you time, hassle, and money down the line.

Do you need planning permission for a garden shed in Ireland?

In Ireland, you can generally build a shed in your garden without planning permission, as long as it meets a few key conditions:¹

• Its 25 square metres or smaller in size
• You don’t intend to live in it
• It’s located to the rear of the house
• Leaves you with at least 25 square metres of open space in your garden
• Doesn’t exceed 3 metres in height or 4 metres with a pitched roof
• It’s located at least 2 metres away from a neighboring property or boundary wall

Where you place your shed really does matter. Even if it’s within the size limits, putting it too close to a boundary, near the front of your property, or in a way that could impact neighbours can still require planning permission.

Always check with your local council before you begin your build. It’s better to be sure right from the start than to run into problems later.

Things to consider before deciding where to put your shed

Before you pick a spot, it’s worth thinking about a few key factors. These will help guide your decision so you choose the perfect spot for your new garden shed.  Here are some questions to consider:

• What will your shed be used for? A shed you need access to regularly will need a different placement for one you only need to access occasionally.
• The size of your garden and your shed. Smaller gardens have less options and bigger sheds might block light or overwhelm a smaller space. 
• What is your garden access like? Will you need additional paths to build your shed or reach it afterwards? If it’s storing large bulky items can you get them to the shed easily?
• Where do you live? Shed placement matters far more on the wet and windy west coast of Ireland than it does in Dublin. And in the sunny south-east, you might need a spot with more shade. 

Where to put the shed in your garden – 9 best and worst places

Once you’ve thought through the basics, it’s time to choose the actual spot. Here’s how to get it right and avoid the most common mistakes.

1. Don’t build on an incline

Flat ground is essential for a stable and long-lasting shed. Placing your shed on a slope can cause a number of problems. Floors can become uneven and water may run underneath, leading to rot and dampness over time. It seems obvious, but even a slight incline can have long-term consequences if not properly accounted for from the start and especially in Ireland’s wet climate where soggy ground is a staple of most gardens.

Level ground also makes installation easier. If your only option is sloped, you’ll need to do extra groundwork before building, like digging out, building up, or installing a raised base. All of these add time and cost. For most garden sheds, the flattest, most solid part of your garden is best.

2. Build your shed near the house

If you’re planning to use your shed regularly or need access to electricity, water, or Wi-Fi, it makes sense to keep it closer to the house. A shed near the back door can double as a utility room, home office, or garden workshop without the hassle of trailing cables across the lawn.

Proximity also makes a difference in winter. You’re far more likely to use your shed if it’s a few steps away, rather than tucked at the far end of a freezing, wet garden. Considering the primary use of your shed here will help you decide how close to the main house it needs to be.

3. Don’t build underneath trees

It might seem like a shaded, protected spot but placing your shed directly under trees can cause problems. Falling leaves, branches, and sticky sap can damage the roof or clog gutters. Birds perching overhead also bring mess you’ll have to clean regularly. And in storm season (especially on the west coast of Ireland), you risk the tree falling onto your shed and causing irreparable damage. 

Moisture is another issue. Trees block sunlight, which slows drying after rain and increases the risk of damp and mold growth. If you do need to build near a tree, make sure there’s enough clearance above the roofline and around the sides for airflow and safe maintenance.

4. Don’t place your shed too close to your garden wall or fence.

Not only do shed planning permission rules in Ireland require your shed to be placed at least 2 metres from a boundary, but building too close to a wall or fence can create moisture traps where air can’t circulate properly, leading to rot and mildew.

There’s also the risk of pest access. Narrow, dark spaces between a shed and a wall are perfect hiding spots for rodents and insects to build nests and they can do a lot of damage to your shed. 

Another important consideration is maintenance. Even an expensive high-quality shed will need to be maintained from time to time. Leaving a gap allows you to paint, clean, and repair your shed with ease.

5. Consider the weather elements

Access to sunlight is a good thing for light and warmth in winter, but depending on what you plan to use your shed for, too much sun can turn your shed into an oven in summer months. If you’re planning to have electronic goods inside, for example, this can be a big problem, because heat buildup can warp materials, damage contents, and make the space uncomfortable to use.

If your only available space is sun-exposed, consider adding ventilation, window shades, or even a reflective roof coating to reduce the internal temperature. Alternatively, aim for a spot that gets some sun in the morning and shade later in the day.

The same goes for very rainy and windy Irish counties. You need to consider rainfall when installing your roof to ensure water runs off easily and doesn’t pool around the base. And in windy places, ensuring your shed has some protection from stormy weather is a good idea to prevent damage.

6. Avoid areas with poor drainage

Before you commit to a spot, observe how water behaves in your garden after heavy rain. If water tends to pool in a certain corner, avoid placing your shed there because it will stay damp, attract pests, and speed up rot in the base and walls.

Good drainage is essential for any outbuilding. If your best option is a slightly soggy spot, consider raising the base on blocks or installing a gravel foundation to improve water runoff. Never put your shed directly on grass or earth without protection underneath.

7. Don’t put your shed in the front garden

Planning to build a shed in your front garden will always require planning permission and you may face objections from neighbours or your local authority.

Even if you’re tight on space, front garden sheds are rarely the best solution. Not only is planning more complex, but security becomes an issue too because front garden sheds are more exposed and easier to access from the street. In large city areas this can lead to an increase in opportunistic theft in your neighborhood.

8. Secluded shed concerns

If your shed ends up in a secluded corner of a large garden, make sure you can still access it safely and easily. A proper pathway makes all the difference especially when you’re carrying heavy tools or garden equipment.

In more secluded spots, it’s also worth thinking about lighting and security. Motion-sensor lights and a clear line of sight from the house can help deter intruders and make evening visits safer. And don’t forget to lock it properly – out of sight doesn’t mean out of reach.

9. Always use a proper foundation

Never place your shed directly on soil, grass, or gravel. Over time, moisture from the ground will cause the base of the shed to rot, and your structure will become unstable. A solid foundation keeps the shed level, improves airflow underneath, and extends the life of the materials.

There are several different base types depending on your budget and garden type, for example, concrete slabs, pressure-treated timber frames, or plastic grid systems filled with gravel. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s flat, stable, and slightly raised to encourage water to drain away.

How long does it take to build a shed?

Now that you have the perfect spot picked out, it’s natural to feel impatient to get the build underway so you can enjoy your new garden shed. Here are the rough timelines it takes to get your shed installed.

• DIY prefabricated kits: If you’re reasonably handy, a flat-pack garden shed kit like the ones offered at Summerhouse24 can usually be assembled in 1 to 3 days. You’ll need time to prep the base, read the instructions carefully, and possibly get help with lifting panels into place. Smaller sheds go up faster, but larger builds with windows or internal sections can take longer.
• Bespoke or custom builds: A made-to-measure shed may require extra groundwork, like levelling, drainage, or fitting out the interior. This process can take several days to a week or more, especially if you’re hiring tradespeople to lay the base, install electrics, or finish the interior. Also more complex designs will take longer to install as a general rule.
• Professional Installation: Many shed suppliers offer professional installation for an extra fee. This is the quickest option and ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of doing it yourself. With this option your shed can be ready in just a few hours. 

Conclusion

By thinking ahead and placing your shed in the right spot, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and get far more use out of the space. Whether you’re building it yourself or bringing in the pros, a little planning goes a long way towards making sure your investment is practical, long-lasting, and fully compliant with local rules.

If you need any help deciding where to put your shed, the Summerhouse24 team is on standby to answer all your questions and provide expert guidance to make sure your shed is perfectly placed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move a shed after installing it?

Yes, but it’s not always easy. You may need to dismantle part or all of it, especially if it’s fixed to a base or large in size. It’s a far better idea to take some time in the beginning to choose the best place to put it.

How far should a shed be from the boundary wall or fence?

To qualify for planning exemption in Ireland, your shed should be at least 2 metres from any boundary wall or neighbouring property.

Can I put a shed directly on grass or gravel?

No. A proper base is essential. Grass and gravel don’t provide the stability or drainage needed to keep your shed dry and secure.

Can I put a shed next to my house?

Yes, as long as it doesn’t block vents, windows, or access for maintenance. Leave enough space for airflow and to work around it if needed.

Can I put a shed in a shady corner of the garden?

You can, but watch for excess moisture. Shady spots can stay damp longer, so make sure the area has good drainage and airflow.

Sources

1. https://planningpermissionireland.ie/planning-permission-guide/exemptions/