Planning Permission in Somerset

Planning Permission in Somerset

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some locations by councils, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to use an architect to draw up plans and 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.