Planning Permission in Menai Bridge
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to 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 intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some areas by councils, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are 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 will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must adhere to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with 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 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.