UK Landscaping Regulations Guide 2025
Essential Compliance for Commercial Properties
Understanding the regulatory landscape to keep your commercial landscaping projects compliant and your business protected.
As professional landscapers serving commercial clients across the UK at 4 Seasons Grounds & Landscaping Solutions, we realise that navigating the complex web of regulations can feel overwhelming. However, staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about protecting your business, your clients, and the environment whilst delivering exceptional landscaping services.
The regulatory landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with tighter environmental standards, enhanced health and safety requirements, and updated planning regulations all impacting how we approach commercial landscaping projects.
Whether you’re planning a comprehensive grounds transformation or routine maintenance, understanding these regulations is crucial for successful project delivery.
Regulations Affecting Commercial Properties
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Requirements
One of the most significant recent developments affecting commercial properties is the tightening of Energy Performance Certificate regulations. Since April 2023, all commercial properties in England and Wales must maintain an EPC rating of E or higher to be legally let, with future requirements becoming even more stringent.
The trajectory for commercial properties is clear: by April 2028, all let commercial buildings must achieve at least an EPC C rating, with the standard expected to rise to EPC B by April 2030. This has direct implications for landscaping projects, particularly those involving sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), green roofing, and energy-efficient external lighting systems.
For landscaping contractors, this means understanding how our work can contribute to improved energy performance. Native plantings that provide natural insulation, permeable paving solutions that reduce water management costs, and strategically placed trees for natural cooling all contribute to enhancing a property’s overall efficiency rating.
Planning Permission Requirements
Knowing when planning permission is required for landscaping work is fundamental to project compliance. While you generally won’t need permission to plant flowers, more extensive projects may require planning permission.
Permitted Development Rights permit specific landscaping work without the need for formal planning applications, but these rights come with strict criteria. For garden sheds or summerhouses under 15 square metres with no sleeping accommodation, building regulations typically don’t apply. However, decking installations must meet specific requirements, including height restrictions of no more than 30cm from ground level.
Commercial Property Considerations are more complex than domestic projects. Article 4 directions can remove permitted development rights in areas of exceptional beauty or environmental sensitivity, meaning that additional scrutiny will be required for commercial landscaping projects in these locations.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas present unique challenges. For listed buildings, you must seek permission for any changes to the appearance of the building or its grounds, including sheds, ponds, patios, or tree work.
Health and Safety Requirements
Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations 2015
The CDM Regulations represent perhaps the most significant health and safety consideration for commercial landscaping projects.
CDM 2015 regulations apply to all construction projects, including landscaping, which is classified as construction work under the definition of “construction, alteration, conversion, demolition or dismantling of a structure”.
Key CDM Responsibilities include:
- Client Duties: For domestic clients, the only responsibility is to appoint a principal designer and principal contractor, after which duties transfer to the appointed parties
- Principal Contractor Obligations: Managing site health and safety, ensuring proper planning, and maintaining construction phase plans
- Contractor Requirements: Following site rules, cooperating with other duty holders, and ensuring worker competence
Project Thresholds determine the level of CDM compliance required. Projects lasting longer than 30 working days with more than 20 workers at any point or exceeding 500 person-days require HSE notification using an F10 form.
Documentation Requirements under CDM include pre-construction information, construction phase plans, and health and safety files. These documents ensure that health and safety considerations are embedded throughout the project lifecycle.
ROLO Certification and Training
The Register of Land-based Operations (ROLO) represents the industry standard for health and safety training in landscaping. ROLO was developed by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) to raise standards of health and safety and environmental awareness and reduce workplace accidents.
ROLO Training Levels include:
- Operative Level: One-day courses covering basic health, safety, and environmental awareness
- Supervisor Level: Two-day courses with e-learning components for site management roles
- Manager Level: Comprehensive training equivalent to CITB SMSTS for senior management
ROLO certification is valid for five years and serves as a prerequisite for LISS/CSCS SmartCard applications, which are required for working on live commercial construction sites.
Environmental Compliance
Waste Management and Disposal
Commercial landscaping generates various waste streams, each with specific disposal requirements. The duty of care applies to anyone who imports, produces, carries, keeps, treats or disposes of controlled waste, including landscape gardeners who transport their own waste.
Waste Classification Requirements mandate proper identification and documentation of all waste streams. Misclassification of waste or operating without appropriate permits can result in unlimited fines and potential imprisonment.
Green Waste Disposal must follow specific guidelines. While on-site composting is often permitted, cutting or uprooting substantial vegetation near watercourses may require environmental permits unless specific exemption conditions are met.
Hazardous Materials require special handling. Hazardous waste refers to materials that are harmful to humans or the environment, requiring specific classification, storage, and disposal procedures.
Water Management and Drainage
Water management has become increasingly critical in commercial landscaping, particularly with an emphasis on sustainable drainage systems (SuDS). The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 established the framework for sustainable surface water drainage, with SuDS becoming mandatory for new developments in 2015.
Surface Water Discharge may require environmental permits. Discharges to surface water or groundwater typically need permits unless they qualify for specific exemptions, such as clean rainwater from roofs or properly treated runoff from small parking areas.
Abstraction Licensing applies when significant water use is required. Abstracting more than 20 cubic metres per day from surface or underground sources requires an abstraction licence from the Environment Agency.
Pollution Prevention measures are mandatory. Landscaping activities must include designated areas for hazardous activities, such as refuelling and pesticide handling, with potential requirements for biobed systems to treat contaminated runoff.
Planning Permissions for Landscaping Projects
Understanding Permitted Development
Permitted Development Rights provide valuable flexibility for many landscaping projects, but understanding the limitations is crucial for compliance.
Height and Size Restrictions apply to most structures. Garden buildings must typically adhere to specific height limits, and decking platforms cannot exceed 30cm from ground level without obtaining planning permission.
Boundary Considerations affect fencing and screening projects. Different rules apply depending on proximity to highways, neighbouring properties, and designated areas.
Commercial vs Domestic Rules differ significantly. Commercial projects often face additional scrutiny, particularly regarding changes in use class and associated development requirements.
Front Garden Conversions and Driveways
Converting front gardens to driveways represents a common commercial landscaping requirement, but one with specific regulatory considerations.
Permeable Surfacing Requirements have become standard practice. The guidance emphasises the importance of permeable surfaces in managing water runoff and preventing flooding.
Dropped Kerb Requirements must be considered early in project planning, as these require separate approval from the highways authorities.
Tree Protection and Management
Tree work on commercial properties requires careful consideration of protection orders and conservation requirements.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) can restrict or prohibit certain types of tree work. Certain trees are protected under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), requiring local council consultation before any significant pruning or removal.
Conservation Area Restrictions may apply additional limitations on tree work and landscaping modifications in designated areas.
Industry Certifications and Accreditation
BALI Membership and Standards
The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) represents the UK’s leading trade association for landscaping professionals. With over 900 accredited members, including garden designers, landscapers, suppliers, and training providers, BALI delivers excellence through standards, innovation, and leadership.
BALI Accreditation Process involves rigorous vetting procedures and ongoing compliance monitoring. Members must sign a strict code of conduct covering environmental sustainability, ethical trading, and commercial standards.
Membership Benefits include access to industry training, technical resources, and professional development opportunities that help maintain regulatory compliance.
Association of Professional Landscapers (APL)
The APL operates as a specialist group within the Horticultural Trade Association, focusing specifically on landscaper accreditation. APL promises the toughest inspection process, with annual reviews ensuring members meet health and safety standards, insurance requirements, and quality benchmarks.
TrustMark Endorsement provides additional credibility. APL inspections are endorsed by TrustMark, a government-backed standards initiative, providing clients with confidence in accredited contractors.
LISS/CSCS SmartCards
The Land-based Industry Skills Scheme (LISS) and Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) provide essential site access credentials. LISS/CSCS SmartCards enable work on live commercial land-based and construction sites by recognising qualifications, training, and health and safety knowledge.
Qualification Requirements vary by card level, with specific educational and training prerequisites for different roles within landscaping teams.
Renewal and Maintenance require ongoing training and demonstration of competency to maintain valid certification.
Staying Compliant: Best Practices
Project Planning and Documentation
Successful compliance begins with thorough project planning and documentation. Establishing clear procedures for assessing regulatory requirements at the planning stage prevents costly delays and modifications during project execution.
Pre-project Assessments should include planning permission requirements, environmental constraints, and health and safety considerations. Early consultation with local planning authorities can clarify requirements and identify potential issues.
Documentation Systems must capture all relevant permits, certifications, and compliance records. Digital systems can streamline record-keeping and ensure easy access during inspections or audits.
Ongoing Training and Development
Regulatory requirements evolve continuously, making ongoing training essential for maintaining compliance. Regular team training ensures all staff understand current requirements and best practices.
Industry Updates require systematic monitoring of regulatory changes, industry guidance updates, and best practice developments. Professional associations provide valuable resources for staying informed.
Competency Management involves ensuring all team members maintain appropriate certifications and understand their responsibilities under current regulations.
Partnership and Professional Support
Working with qualified professionals and maintaining industry partnerships strengthens compliance capabilities, providing access to specialist expertise when needed.
Professional networks, such as those provided by organisations like BALI and APL, offer ongoing support, training opportunities, and peer learning experiences that enhance compliance capabilities.
Specialist Consultants can provide valuable support for complex projects involving multiple regulatory requirements or unusual circumstances.