Planning Permission in Essex

Planning Permission in Essex

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some regions by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to abide by all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.