Planning Permission in Enniskillen

Planning Permission in Enniskillen

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving 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 expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain locations by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority.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 are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings and 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 taken into account 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.