Planning Permission in Stocksfield

Planning Permission in Stocksfield

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations relevant 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 will 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 line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.