Planning Permission in Braunton

Planning Permission in Braunton

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not need 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 covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some locations by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations corresponding 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 generally a good idea to use 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 considered from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.