Planning Permission in Lichfield

Planning Permission in Lichfield

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority.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 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 pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.