Planning Permission in Dornoch

Planning Permission in Dornoch

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few locations by councils, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are intending 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 neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to abide by 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 often a good idea to utilise 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 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.