Planning Permission in Alness

Planning Permission in Alness

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few areas by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts 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'll 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 road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.