Get Permission For The Railway

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 7

Part 2

Planning Permission

I would say that you do not need planning permission but that may not be strictly true

Putting tracks on agricultural land has been deemed as change of use

Putting tracks in an ancient orchard got a council to act - mainly worried about tree root damage.

Neighbours - one railway in Yorkshire has restrictions imposed on it after a neighbour took the issue to court. (probably right to a private life)

Asking a council whether you need permission will definately give you answers but may also raise more questions. Your choice.

Do consider the neighbours. If you live in a built up area and run a noisey, smelly two stroke petrol engine at all hours then you can expect someone to be upset. If running electric occassionally or a small steam engine then you can expect the neighbours to be more sympathetic.

Permission from the Boss

This is not meant to be sexist but more often than not gardening is the domain of the fairer sex and as such is their kingdom.

The garden is often a communal area used for socialising. Ploughing a trackbed through the prized daisys is not going to win you any friends. Do your research and plan well. Planting schemes and alternative beds are great plus points.

Great selling points include -

Outside hobby - you will find yourself re exporing your garden
Include new garden features like raised beds, rockeries etc (can be useful for diposing of soil)
Make a feature of it - picket fencing, lamp posts - add character to it.
Can reduce (or increase) the flower beds and maintenance
A great hobby all the family can enjoy
Doesn't involve leaving the property

Great for the grand children

I would thoroughly do your research and if at all possible visit an established railway. A visit on an open day can often open peoples eyes to the potential enjoyment a railway can give. The owner will also have a list of "don't do what I did" which you will be wise to learn from.

Things to Remember

While planning a railway consider the following, especially if you are constructing a full loop. -

Garden lighting - put in cables while you can
Pipes under the track bed for hose pipes (save trailing across the line)
Power - 12v or even a 240v socket for the lawn mower (again save trailing across the line)
Future signalling wires
Water for steam engines

Storage for engines and rolling stock. If possible on the line.

Next Stage - Track Bed Design