Planning Permission in Hythe

Planning Permission in Hythe

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few locations by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must 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 generally a good idea to work with an architect to draft plans and 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.