Planning Permission in Dartford

Planning Permission in Dartford

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require 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 will still need to adhere to all building regulations corresponding 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 use 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 detailing 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 road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.