Planning Permission in Okehampton

Planning Permission in Okehampton

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some locations by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations pertaining 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 generally a good idea to work with an architect to draw up 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 taken into account 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.