How to Get Planning Permission for Your Barn Conversion

Barn conversions can often add immense value and living space to a property, making them a fairly popular choice throughout the UK. 

If you happen to be in the fortunate position of awaiting your own barn conversion project, it is worth figuring out how to get hold of the right planning permission. 

There are a few ways you can go about doing this, and to make sure you get it right the first time (it can be a lengthy process to repeat), here are some important points you might want to consider. 

Consider the Nature of Your Project

The type of planning permission you will need to get your hands on will vary depending on the nature of your project. 

Before you apply for anything, you need to be clear on what you intend to use your barn for. For example, if you aim to simply convert your agricultural barn into a residential dwelling, you might be covered under what’s called class Q conversion legislation. 

If this is the case, you do not need to worry about applying for full planning permission. This legislation was passed in 2014 is in place to help make it easier for construction projects to happen in general. 

If your barn does not meet the requirements on the class Q permitted development rights, you will need to apply for full planning permission. 

Where do You Get the Application?

You should be able to find an application from your local council’s website under the planning and building section (or a similar kind of title, planning, property, and environment, for example).

You can also check the gov.uk website for advice on which forms might apply to your specific situation. 

Conduct a Survey

Surveying your property is essential in your effort to make your application as strong as possible. Plus, it’s important to the project itself, as you need to make sure it’s structurally sound. 

To do this, you will likely need the help of a structural engineer, an expert with an eye for detail, and the experience necessary to guide you through the process. 

Mount Your Case

Once the structural survey is done, it’s time to mount your case. This means compiling all of your drawings, surveys, designs, measurements, blueprints (if applicable), expert recommendations, and, depending on your situation, how the barn fits in with the rest of the surrounding area. 

You may need to involve specialists like historical consultants, or if your building has any special materials like thatch – a thatch worker. 

There is every chance permitted development rights cover you, but if you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult an expert for advice, or at least read all the information on the government’s website. 

This is because going ahead with a project before getting permission may result in you needing to tear down all your hard work at some point in the future. 

If you’ve kept everything above board and gathered all the necessary information, your beautiful new barn conversion should be able to get underway in no time.