Planning Permission in Westgate-on-sea

Planning Permission in Westgate-on-sea

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain areas by local authorities, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require 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 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 like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.