Planning Permission in Hastings
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a few locations by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, 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 such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to use an architect to draft plans also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.
