Planning Permission in Godstone

Planning Permission in Godstone

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up technical drawings and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans detailing 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.