Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garage Extension?

One of the greatest things about owning your own home is the ability to make changes. While you might be able to do almost anything you please inside the house, however, the outside of your house might be a little more closely regulated.

For example, what if your house came with a garage, but it was too small to do anything with? When made that little bit larger, they’re great for storing things, for use as a workshop or for the classic purpose of parking your car – especially given how much room modern cars now take up. You get more livable space and greater security for your vehicle, so it seems like a no-brainer to add a garage extension, doesn’t it?

While it is a great idea, it’s one that needs to be thought out. More specifically, you might want to ask ‘do I need planning permission for a garage extension?’. It’s a sensible thing to consider, alongside the pros and cons for your home, so in this article, we’ll be answering the question and explaining the benefits of a garage extension.

Is Planning Permission Needed for a Garage Extension?

A lot of people assume that any structural changes to a building will require planning permission, and while it’s sensible to do your due diligence, you might find that there are fewer restrictions than you first imagined.

Smaller bits of extension work – such as a garage extension – is likely to fall within your permitted development rights. Garages tend to be covered under these provisions as long as they meet the following criteria:

They are no more than a single storey, with their maximum height set at 4 metres
They don’t exceed more than 50% of the original land around the property
They are not used as a habitable living area (essentially, no beds, just storage space)
They meet specific guidance on how close they come to the boundary line (this is dependent on where on the property your garage is positioned)

If you’re in a flat, maisonette or commercial property, these permitted development rights will not apply. They will also not be applicable if your property is in a conservation area. You should check this – as well as whether permitted development rights have been removed for your property – before you start any work.

The Benefits of a Garage Extension

While almost any kind of extension is bound to add value to your property, a garage extension comes with some unique benefits. Here are just some of the reasons you might want to consider adding extra space to your garage if it falls within your permitted development rights:

More room for storage – Free up space in your house by putting the things you don’t use very often in the garage. This can include boxes that would otherwise be taking up precious space. Extra garage floorspace means you could install functional storage equipment, such as shelves and cabinets.
Create a utility room – Always wanted a tumble dryer to help dry clothes in the winter? Add space to your garage and then you could use it to hold white goods such as a washing machine, a dryer and a chest freezer. Once again, it’s a great way to keep things tidier inside the house.
Store your car – Your car will surely be one of the most expensive things you own, so a garage is an ideal way to protect it, but most modern cars don’t fit into older garages. Whether you’re trying to protect your vehicle from the elements or you know there is a high crime rate in your area, parking your car in your garage overnight gives you peace of mind.
Garden equipment and furniture – We all like to enjoy our gardens come summer, but if you need to keep a table, chairs, barbecue, lawnmower and other associated tools in order to do so, then you need somewhere to store them. Put these items in your garage over winter to protect them ready for the following year.

Choose a Reliable Garage Extension Company

If you’re planning to create more space in your garage for your car or just for storage, make sure you get the professional planning services of experienced Nottingham builders. At Bosaco, we’ve been helping homeowners with extensions for many years, including advice on whether planning permission is required to help achieve your dream garage. Our team carry out a range of building services and property refurbishment services to the very highest standard, meaning you don’t have to worry about quality or professionalism when working with us.

To find out more simply contact us today to discuss your garage extension project or any other extension project you want to plan in Nottingham – we’re always happy to assist you.