Planning Permission in Plockton

Planning Permission in Plockton

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few locations by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are considering undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations corresponding 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 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 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.