Planning Permission in Irvine

Planning Permission in Irvine

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some areas by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need 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 adhere to all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings also 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 taken into account 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.