Planning Permission in Bicester

Planning Permission in Bicester

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain regions by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, 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 conform to all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up technical drawings and 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.