Planning Permission in Mansfield

Planning Permission in Mansfield

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain locations by councils, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending 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 will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to abide by all building regulations related 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 generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings and 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 considered 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.