Planning Permission in Skelmersdale

Planning Permission in Skelmersdale

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain regions by councils, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to conform to all building regulations corresponding 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 draft technical drawings and 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 taken into account 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.