Planning Permission in Woodstock
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain regions by councils, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking 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 must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.
