Building Guide

This page provides a guide to some average heights of residential and commercial buildings you may be flying around, and over in the UK. We've provided these to give pilots an idea as to the vertical clearance required for these structures. Using this as a guide, pilots can quickly learn to judge altitude clearances for their flights.

Please take a look at our Potential Dangers, Infrastructure and Trees sections also.

Warning!

This information is provided in good faith and is intended as a guide only. As the drone pilot you are solely responsible for the safety of your aircraft and your surroundings including other people, ensuring you adhere to the CAA Drone Code at all times!

Warehouse Type Buildings

In the UK, many modern warehouses are designed with a clear height (the distance from the floor to the lowest point of the ceiling or any obstructions) of around 10 meters (approximately 32.8 feet) or higher. This allows for greater storage capacity and efficient use of space with the use of tall racking systems. However, older warehouses or those serving different purposes may have lower heights.

The specific height of a warehouse can also depend on various factors such as location, local zoning regulations, the type of goods stored, and the logistics and handling equipment used.


Residential Properties

Houses

House heights in the UK vary greatly, here's a guide:

Terraced Houses
Terraced houses are typically two or three stories in height. The height of each floor can vary, but the total height is usually around 7 to 9 meters (approximately 23 to 30 feet).

Semi-Detached and Detached Houses
Semi-detached and detached houses often have two or more stories and can range in height. Typically, they are around 8 to 12 meters (approximately 26 to 39 feet) tall, but this can vary.

Bungalows
Bungalows are single-story homes, so their height is generally lower compared to multi-story houses. They typically have a height of around 3 to 4 meters (approximately 10 to 13 feet).

It's important to note that house height can vary not only between different types of housing but also based on local building codes and architectural trends. Newer developments and high-rise apartments in urban areas can significantly deviate from these general averages.

Flats And Apartments

Low-Rise Apartments
Low-rise apartment buildings typically have 2 to 4 stories and are generally under 15 meters (approximately 49 feet) in height.

Mid-Rise Apartments
Mid-rise apartment buildings typically have 5 to 9 stories and can range in height from 15 to 30 meters (approximately 49 to 98 feet).

High-Rise Apartments
High-rise apartment buildings are taller and can have 10 stories or more, with heights often exceeding 30 meters. In major cities, high-rise apartment buildings can be 50 meters (approximately 164 feet) or more in height.