Planning Permission - Window in Garage

[uuf361]

I'm considering putting a window (approx 40" X 25" and non-opening) in the back of my garage (single 40ft long) and have been told that if I do this I might need to apply for planning permission as it would be turning it into 'habitable space'.

Can you anyone confirm/deny ? My local council website a little vague!

[B17NNS]

Putting a window in a garage in no way makes it a habitable space.

The only reason the planners might be remotely interested is if it allows you to overlook somebody.

A quick call to the council should clear the matter up totally but I'd imagine you would be fine.

Alternatively speak to any neighbours effected and get the ok from them, if it's an issue suggest obscure glazing.

[Flintstone]

What makes it habitable, the provision of light or the aesthetics of a window?

If the window is a problem what about a light tube or skylight? You'll have light in the garage and the neighbours needn't worry about the gurning perve overlooking their garden



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light_tube

[herbialfa]

Single storey windows don't need Planning Permission.

Unless listed buildings etc.

As been said above there might be an overlooking issue but........

[Robscim]

I know of least one of your neighbours who would complain bitterly....

Rob

[tankplanker]

Currently having a garage turned into a workshop (window fitted today, finishing off plastering tomorrow) I can say that you do need to get the building inspector out and get some plans drawn up and submitted. We spent about £500 on getting everything sorted by a surveyor, expensive but everything was sorted out for us.

What they are interested in is if you are having any sort of permanent heating in the room and thus plan on using it as a playroom or similar as they insist on you having a decent amount of insulation (this includes the floor as well). Escape route, any additional power points/lighting are also key areas.

Fail to get approval and it won't affect the build, although any decent builder should refuse to do the job till you have approval as they will be liable, the real problems come when you try to sell your house and their solicitor finds out about the issue.

[uuf361]

Robscim said:

I know of least one of your neighbours who would complain bitterly....

Rob

Oi, you're too far away to count...........or i'll set the niusance noise people on you LOL

[uuf361]

No neighbours affected at all, couldn't see anything more than out of the adjacent windows and not listed........should be OK then

[herbialfa]

Yes you should be OK!

If its as simple as putting a window into your garage and keeping it as a garage then simples!

However if you are going to convert it into "something" what has been said above is correct. You will need Building Regs!

[_dobbo_]

B17NNS said:

A quick call to the council should clear the matter up totally but I'd imagine you would be fine.

Used to be able to do this with our local planning office. Now you have to write to them and pay £40, in return they will offer a written response as to whether you need planning permission.

Want to know the best bit? The written response is in no way legally binding and they can still enforce planning requirements on you even if they've told you in writing you don't need permission...