Planning Permission in Belfast

Planning Permission in Belfast

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a few regions by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.