Garage Conversion Planning Permission
Usually, no. Almost all garage conversions in England and Wales can go ahead without planning permission, despite what some companies claim. Because the size of the building doesn't change, permission isn't normally needed. Only around 1 in 14 of our conversions has needed it.
This information applies to properties in England and Wales.
When you might need planning permission
There are a few situations where the usual rule doesn't apply. If any of these sound like your home, we'll check with your council before anything starts.
Listed buildings
Changes to a listed building need consent, so a conversion will need an application.
National Parks and restricted areas
Homes in a National Park, or another area where changes to properties are locally restricted, may need permission.
Permitted development rights removed
Still rare, but it happens. It's most common on newer estate houses and homes that have already been significantly extended.
Building forward with a bay
Adding a walk-in bay that takes the front of the building further forward than it is now needs a planning application.
Planning permission vs Building Regulations
Planning permission
Controls how your home looks and whether the change is allowed at all. Most garage conversions don't need it.
Building Regulations
Structural alterations to a house are legally notifiable to the council. Building Control inspect the work to make sure it's safe, warm and dry. We won't do structural work that isn't inspected, as inspection protects you and your home insurance.
We handle all of it for you
- Checking with your local authority if there's any doubt
- Submitting a planning application on your behalf if one is needed, well in advance
- All the Building Regulations paperwork
- Arranging Building Control inspections and sign-off
- Including the council's inspection fee in your fixed-price quote
Want to read more?
The government's Planning Portal has guidance on garage conversions, and most councils have their own web page or advice line too.
Not sure whether you need permission? Ask us and we'll find out for you.
Ask us a planning question