Saving changes is not permitted

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) blocks table changes that would require the table to be dropped and recreated if a specific configuration setting is enabled. This includes changes like:

• Reordering columns
• Changing a column’s NULL property
• Modifying data types
• Adding a column in between others

This safeguard is in place to prevent accidental data loss, as recreating a table may remove relationships, triggers, or indexes if not handled carefully.

It’s a client-side setting, not a SQL Server error—so no permissions or SQL-level changes are needed. You can simply disable the option in SSMS to allow these changes.

• Attempting to:
  • Reorder columns
  • Change Allow Nulls on an existing column
  • Modify a column’s data type
  • Add a column in a non-final position
• SSMS setting "Prevent saving changes that require table re-creation" is enabled (default setting)

Q: Will disabling this setting cause data loss?
A: Not directly—but changes that require table recreation can drop constraints, indexes, or relationships. Always review changes and back up the table.

Q: Is this a server issue or a local setting?
A: It’s a local SSMS setting. You’re not changing any server-side permissions or behaviors.

Q: Can I make these changes safely in production?
A: It depends on the change. For large or critical tables, make changes during a maintenance window and test them on a staging copy first.