Garage Conversions: Do You Need Planning Permission to Turn a Garage Into a Room?

Are you planning to convert a garage into a room? You may be wondering about whether or not you will need planning permission to do so. This depends on a number of factors, including the size and location of your garage, as well as the intended use of the converted space. In some cases, planning permission for a garage conversion may not be required at all. However, it's always best to check with your local planning authority before beginning any work, just to be safe.

At Garage Conversion California Building Innovations (CBI) of Orange County, California, we've made this post to help clear any confusion you may have about garage conversions and planning permission. Keep reading to learn more and find out if garage conversion planning permission is something you need to worry about. Contact us today if you live in the Los Angeles area and are ready to get started on your garage conversion project.

What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is the permission granted by local authorities to allow changes or development to a property. In most cases, garage conversions will fall under the category of permitted development, meaning planning permission is not required.

However, there are certain circumstances where planning permission may be needed. These include if your garage is located in a listed building or conservation area, or if the proposed conversion would result in a garage that is significantly larger than the existing one.

As a rule of thumb, garage conversions usually fall into one of the following three categories:

Permitted development with no planning permission required
Planning permission required
Listed building consent required (in addition to planning permission)

Read more frequently asked questions about garage planning permission or contact us today for any specific questions you may have.

Garage Size

In general, planning permission is more likely to be required for larger garage conversions. If you have a small, one-car garage, you may be able to convert it without needing to apply for permission. This is because the work involved is likely to be minimal and unlikely to significantly impact your neighborhood. However, if you have a large garage, especially if you’re planning to expand the space, even more, permission is more likely to be necessary.

Garage Location

The location of your garage can also affect whether or not you need planning permission. Be sure to consider the following if you’re thinking about turning your garage into a room.

Front or Back of the House: If your garage is at the back of the property, you may not need planning permission to convert it. However, if your garage is located at the front of your home, any work to convert it into a room is likely to be subject to greater scrutiny from your local planning authority. This is because any changes to the appearance of your home's exterior could affect the look of the entire street.
Attached or Detached: If your garage is attached to your home, you are more likely to need planning permission to convert it. This is because any work involved could affect the structural integrity of your home. If your garage is detached, however, you are more likely to be able to convert it without needing to get planning permission.
Conservation Areas: There are some specific regulations that apply to garage conversions in conservation areas. If your home is located in such an area, you will definitely need to obtain planning permission before proceeding with any work. If you’re unsure if your garage space is located on or near a conservation area, it’s best to reach out to your local planning authority and ask.

Intended Use of the New Space

Finally, the intended use of the converted space will also be taken into account when deciding whether or not planning permission is required. If you're planning on using the space as a habitable room, such as a bedroom, living room, or an entire accessory dwelling unit, then you will almost certainly need planning permission. However, if you're only planning on using the space for storage, you may not need planning permission.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether or not you need planning permission for your Orange County garage is to contact your local planning authority and ask. They will be able to tell you definitively whether or not you need permission, and they can also provide guidance on the next steps you need to take.

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Get Help From the Renovation and Remodeling Pros at Garage Conversion CBI

At Garage Conversion CBI, we can help you with all aspects of your garage conversion, including asking about and applying for planning permission. From start to finish, we'll work with you to ensure that your garage conversion is exactly what you've been dreaming of. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

If you're looking for help with your garage conversion project, contact Garage Conversion CBI of Los Angeles and Orange County today. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in garage renovations, remodeling, and conversions, as well as all types of home renovation services. We can help you every step of the way — from planning and design to construction and completion. Give us a call today to learn more about what we can do for you!

Contact Garage Conversion CBI Today