Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?

KaratePigeon

Sorry I know this probably gets asked a lot, but I've searched and just getting so confused - I've hopefully found a builder who can start work in a few weeks but I don't want to break any rules!

We want to convert our integral garage into a living space. It's a detached house, several other houses in our street have had conversions so I don't think there would be any problem. We have enough space on the driveway for 3 vehicles.

I can't get though to anyone at the council, if you do manage they just direct you to the website which is equally unhelpful. (says permission isn't required unless the outside is changed, which is will be as I want to replace the garage door with a window). I thought I'd just apply for it anyway to be safe, but then I need to submit plans... I didn't think I needed plans as the only structural change is bricking up the garage door to replace with a window.

Am I ok to proceed with it anyway or is it too risky?

neilmcl

Always worth asking your council's planning department, that's what they are there for, but generally no you don't need planning permission if all the work is internal.

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/25/garage_conversion

KaratePigeon

Thanks, I've literally tried the planning dept but keep going round in circles as everything is automated! So even though it'll look a bit different from outside it's still classed as internal work?

TadleyBaggie

I had this done a few years ago, no planning permission was required. Building control on the other hand....

Rosa_Damascena

A competent  local will be able to offer you an answer.

travis-powers

I’m having a garage/workshop built to side of house and will be converting existing garage into a room.
 I was advised by the chap doing my drawings that the only permission I need for existing garage is the change from door to window as it’s front of house.

Doozergirl

travis-powers said:

I’m having a garage/workshop built to side of house and will be converting existing garage into a room.
 I was advised by the chap doing my drawings that the only permission I need for existing garage is the change from door to window as it’s front of house.

That isn't usually true. 

Replacing the door with windows would fall under permitted development usually.  

Sometimes houses have their permitted development rights removed for garage conversions.  Usually newer houses on estates where parking is at a premium.  

OP, you can submit a pre-application request to your local authority.  Easier than actually making an unnecessary application.  Or have a quick chat with a local architect.  

As someone has already said, building control approval is definitely needed to check it's being built correctly.  

KaratePigeon

Thanks, I was going to submit a pre-application request but it costs £120 (which I'll pay if I need to) but asks for plans to be submitted (which I don't have and don't really need?)

The builder I'm going to use have an architect but they are not committing either way and just say I need to check with the council. Going round in circles, it's so complicated.

DevilDamo

Have the other properties submitted Planning applications, which you can check via your Council’s website? If not, then assume it’s PD. If they have, then assume PD rights have been removed and formal Planning is required.

KaratePigeon

DevilDamo said:

Have the other properties submitted Planning applications, which you can check via your Council’s website? If not, then assume it’s PD. If they have, then assume PD rights have been removed and formal Planning is required.

Hmm that's a good idea, I've checked and my neighbour next-door-but-one previous owner had a planning application on there but that was from 2003 - no others but I don't know when the rules changed and when the other neighbours had theirs done?

DevilDamo

Even those who have not had garage conversions carried out, your Planning website may include the Planning Officers’ report, assessment or Delegated Report which does sometimes confirm the PD situation. It may also provide details of the original Planning approval including conditions referring to any withdrawal of PD rights. If you approach an architect/designer to assist you with at least the Building Regulation stage, they should also check the potential Planning requirements.