| By :
Joe Brown
Many people become confused when they hear the words building regulations and planning permission in the same sentence. Building regulations are a separate matter than getting a planning permission for a project you want to work on. In some cases, you might not need planning permission, but may need to meet some building regulations. Before you begin allocating any resources toward a building project it is advised that you speak with a planning consultant first, to find out what types of building need planning permission. Required planning permission If your are planning to construct a new building, conduct major building renovations and additions or change the use of your building, or even your land, then in most of these cases you will require planning permission. Although planning permission is not commonly required for most internal building alterations that do not alter the external appearance or structure of a building, a wise course to take is to always check first. Even if you only plan to do a small external job or make minor repairs to your building. Changing the building use may also require obtaining planning permission. Types of buildings and areas that usually need planning permission House extensions - Depending on how extensive your house extension will be will be a determining factor if you will need planning permission. Garage/shed/swimming pool - Most new building projects and structures need planning permission, but the location of the property is a major consideration as well. Some residential properties have certain development rights to allow new buildings such as a shed, garage or even a swimming pool without having to secure planning permission. Fence or wall - A fence or a wall usually falls under most residential property rights and do not require planning permission, unless the proposed fence or wall is of a certain height or made of uncommon or unusual building materials. Convert your office into a flat - Definitely you will need planning permission if you plan on changing the use of a building or field. Extending your garden into an adjoining field - Obtaining planning permission will most definitely be required if your property/garden is inside the city limits. Although you can check with you local Planning Department, agricultural land isn't normally approved for change of use. Changing a home property into a holiday accommodation - Fortunately most domestic properties can be approved for planning permission to allow for holiday purposes, but if you plan on making alterations to your home, then you best make sure you don't need planning permission first. Using your holiday home as your permanent address - This situation depends on the circumstances. For example, if the original purpose of the property was to be used for holiday purposes, then planning permission will most likely be necessary. If the building was originally constructed for residential use then you may not need planning permission. Demolishing a building - While demolishing your building may not require planning permission it does depend on the circumstances. If you demolish a building and do not require planning permission, you will most definitely need one if you plan on rebuilding on the site at a later date. These are just some examples of what types of building need planning permission, but again, it is always wise before you begin allocating any resources toward a building project that you first check with a planning consultant.
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