Planning Permission in Filey
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain locations by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations relevant 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 generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up 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 road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.