Planning Permission in Littlehampton

Planning Permission in Littlehampton

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like 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 will likely still need to submit plans detailing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is considered 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.