Planning Permission in Balerno

Planning Permission in Balerno

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of regions by local authorities, particularly 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 the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings and 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.