Planning Permission in Pembroke

Planning Permission in Pembroke

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain areas by councils, usually in new builds, so it is always worth verifying 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 will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally 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.