Public consultation opens for planning permission exemptions
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne has today (July 29) announced a significant step in the review of the exempted development provisions.
Minister Browne made the announcement along with departmental colleagues, the Minister of State for Planning, John Cummins, and the Minister of State for Older People, Kieran O'Donnell.
Under these proposed changes, an applicant would no longer need to apply for and attain planning permission for certain types of developments.
Increasing the number of development types from requiring planning permission is aimed at a reduction in smaller applications that may no longer require the need for a full planning permission process.
This would free up local authority resources for larger-scale developments, particularly for housing, and additionally would allow homeowners to proceed with small-scale projects more quickly.
Conducted as part of the implementation plan for the Planning and Development Act 2024, draft updated exempted development regulations are available to view online as part of the public consultation, starting today (July 29) and running until Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
Minister Browne said the government are welcoming public submissions, which he believes will be a vital part of the considerations as the new regulations are drafted in the coming months.
Speaking ahead of the consultation, Minister Browne said: "We are committed to exploring all routes to help meet the urgent demand for homes across the country and in our capital city.
"The work being undertaken regarding exempted developments is one strand of our determination to unblock the planning system, and the work of our planners, so they can focus on and support us to delivery housing at the scale required."
"Being able to easily and simply adapt dwellings to meet changing needs could have a significant impact on people’s lives," Minister Browne added.
Under the current review, proposed planning permission exemptions include:
- Attic conversions, including roof lights: This will make it easier for homeowners to expand living space vertically.
- Heatpumps: In order to support climate goals.
- Subdivision of existing dwellings: In order to enable living-in-situ by older people and other family members.
- Detached habitable accommodation within the boundary of a primary dwelling: This enables flexible housing for relatives or carers.
