Planning Permission in Salcombe

Planning Permission in Salcombe

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a number of areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need 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 often a good idea to work with an architect to draft technical drawings and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans detailing 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 line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.