Planning Permission in Pitlochry

Planning Permission in Pitlochry

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend 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 However, these rights have been rescinded in a few regions by councils, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require 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 corresponding 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 use 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 describing 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 line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.