Planning Permission in Kingsbridge

Planning Permission in Kingsbridge

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of locations by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to 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 draft technical drawings and 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.