Build a tree house in your garden

In a private garden, it's important to know that huts are subject to the general building law. Your future hut could be considered a light leisure dwelling (HLL). A light leisure dwelling is legally a construction for non-professional use, which can be dismantled or transported, constitutes a dwelling and is intended for temporary or seasonal occupation.

But are there any special formalities involved?

- If your hut has a floor area of between 5 and 20 m2, you'll need to submit a prior declaration to the town hall.
- Above 20 m2, you'll need to apply for planning permission.

For children, a tree house with a floor area of less than 5 m2 should not only suffice, but fill them with joy. Who hasn't dreamed of having their own little tree house perched in the big oak tree in the garden, so they could watch and play all day long? Under article R 421-1 et seq. of the Code de l'urbanisme, this little hut is exempt from all formalities.

Please note, however, that tree houses installed :

- on a campsite,
- in a residential leisure park
- in certain vacation villages
- or in certain outbuildings of family vacation homes,

are exempt from formalities if their floor area is less than or equal to 35 m2 (otherwise, a prior declaration is required).

Stéphanie SWIKLINSKI