Planning Permission in South Petherton

Planning Permission in South Petherton

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand 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 taken away in a number of areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings and 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. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.