New planning exemptions increase limits for rear extensions, garden structures and introduce new options for additional accommodation
Homeowners can now build larger extensions without applying for planning permission following changes to Ireland’s exempted development rules.
New regulations which came into effect on July 27 increased the maximum size of an exempt rear extension to a principal dwelling from 40 square metres to 45 square metres, subject to a number of conditions.
The 45-square-metre limit is cumulative, meaning previous extensions to the property must be taken into account rather than homeowners automatically receiving a new 45-square-metre allowance.
At least 25 square metres of private open space must also generally remain to the rear of the property, while restrictions relating to the height, location and windows of an extension continue to apply.
The changes form part of a wider expansion of planning exemptions for residential properties.
The maximum size of an exempt structure in a back garden, such as a shed, store, home office or gym, has increased from 25 to 30 square metres.
A new exemption also allows, subject to detailed conditions, for a detached auxiliary dwelling of between 32 and 45 square metres to be constructed to the rear of a principal house and linked to its services.
Another new exemption allows a principal dwelling to be subdivided to create one additional self-contained unit within the existing building, with each unit required to have a minimum floor area of 32 square metres.
The new auxiliary dwelling and subdivision exemptions require notification to the relevant local authority at least 14 days before works commence and are subject to specific conditions.
The regulations also introduce exemptions relating to dormer roof extensions and rooflights and expand existing provisions for other works to residential properties.
Homeowners are advised to check that a proposed development meets all of the relevant conditions before beginning work, as exceeding the specified limits or failing to meet other requirements may mean planning permission is still required.
