Planning Permission in Stonehouse

Planning Permission in Stonehouse

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few areas by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to adhere to all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draft plans and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.