Planning Permission in Barnetby

Planning Permission in Barnetby

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect 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 verifying with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required 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 including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings also to 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.