Planning Permission in Glenrothes

Planning Permission in Glenrothes

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned 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 your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some regions by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with 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 generally a good idea to use an architect to draw up plans and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans detailing 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 line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.