Planning Permission in Northallerton
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan 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 taken away in some areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need 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 must abide by all building regulations pertaining 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 technical drawings 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.