Planning Permission in Arbroath

Planning Permission in Arbroath

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some locations by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans describing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is considered from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.