Planning Permission Guides
Everything you need to know about planning permission in Ireland. From checking if you need permission to making an appeal.
Our guides are based on current legislation including the Planning and Development Act 2000 and reference official sources. They are regularly reviewed for accuracy. Learn more about our editorial process.
Do I Need Planning Permission?
When planning permission is required in Ireland, what developments are exempt, and how to check with your local authority.
Read guide →Planning Permission Loopholes Ireland
There are no loopholes, but there are legal exemptions worth thousands. The 12 exemptions Irish homeowners miss most, including the July 2026 changes.
Read guide →Exempted Development in Ireland
Current thresholds for exempted development in Ireland after the July 2026 changes: 45 sqm extensions, 30 sqm garden structures, habitable cabins.
Read guide →How to Apply for Planning Permission
A step-by-step guide to applying for planning permission in Ireland, including documents needed, the 8-week process, costs, and what to expect.
Read guide →How to Object to a Planning Application
How to make a submission or observation on a planning application in Ireland, including valid grounds, the process, fees, and tips for effective objections.
Read guide →Planning Permission Fees in Ireland
Complete fee schedule for planning applications in Ireland, including application fees, retention costs, submission fees, appeal fees, and exemptions.
Read guide →Planning Appeals to An Coimisiun Pleanala
Complete guide to the planning appeals process in Ireland, including who can appeal, fees, timelines, oral hearings, and what to expect from An Coimisiun Pleanala.
Read guide →Retention Planning Permission in Ireland
Guide to retention planning permission in Ireland, including when you need it, fees, the 7-year rule, success rates, and what it means for selling your property.
Read guide →Pre-Planning Consultation in Ireland
Guide to pre-planning consultations with local authorities in Ireland, including what to expect, how to request a meeting, what to bring, and when it is mandatory.
Read guide →Change of Use Planning Permission in Ireland
When you need planning permission for a change of use in Ireland, including commercial to residential conversions, short-term letting (Airbnb), and material change of use rules.
Read guide →How Long Does Planning Permission Take in Ireland?
A complete guide to planning permission timelines in Ireland, from application to decision, including delays, further information requests, appeals, and how long permission lasts.
Read guide →Planning Permission for Extensions in Ireland
When you need planning permission for a house extension in Ireland: the 45 sqm exemption rule (raised from 40 sqm in July 2026), above-ground limits, application process, fees, and party wall considerations.
Read guide →Log Cabins, Mobile Homes & Auxiliary Dwellings: Planning Rules Ireland 2026
The July 2026 rules for log cabins, granny flats, modular homes, and mobile homes in Irish gardens: the 32-45 sqm auxiliary dwelling exemption (Class 3A), why mobile homes are excluded, the 14-day council notification, and the commencement notice and certifier you need.
Read guide →New Planning Regulations Ireland 2026: Every Change From 27 July
Every change in Ireland's new planning exemption regulations (SI 338-344/2026, in force 27 July 2026): 45 sqm extensions, 30 sqm sheds, garden dwellings, subdivision, dormers, front roof lights, heat pumps, chimneys, wall insulation and bike stores.
Read guide →