Planning Permission in Lancaster

Planning Permission in Lancaster

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending 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 neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations relevant 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 work with an architect to draft technical drawings and 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.