Planning Permission in Wiltshire

Planning Permission in Wiltshire

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain regions by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're preparing 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 neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draft plans and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans describing 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 line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.