Get In Touch
Get In Touch

Guides

Do I Need Planning Permission?

Many home projects in Ireland are exempt from planning permission if they stay within set limits. These guides explain the main rules for common projects, and when you'll need to apply.

  • Extensions, garden rooms and porches
  • Solar panels and driveways
  • When you need to apply
  • How to check with your council
Get free quotes Call 083 056 8710

Official source: Citizens Information. Emergency Trade is independent and not part of SEAI or any council. Always confirm details with the official source before applying.

How exemptions work

Some small projects count as exempted development, meaning no planning permission is needed, as long as they meet every condition. The conditions are detailed, and they don't apply to protected structures or, in some cases, architectural conservation areas. If you're unsure, you can ask your council for a formal decision, known as a Section 5 declaration.

Guides in this section

Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension?Many rear extensions in Ireland don't need planning permission, as long as they stay within set limits. Broadly, the tot… Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room?Many garden rooms in Ireland don't need planning permission if they're no more than 25 square metres, stay behind the fr… Do I Need Planning Permission for a Porch?A small front porch is usually exempt from planning permission in Ireland if it's no more than 2 square metres, at least… Do I Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels?Most rooftop solar panels on homes in Ireland don't need planning permission, following rule changes in 2022 that remove… Do I Need Planning Permission for a Driveway?Creating a new entrance onto a public road, or widening an existing one, generally needs planning permission in Ireland,…

Frequently asked questions

What is exempted development?

Development that doesn't need planning permission because it meets set conditions in the planning regulations.

What is a Section 5 declaration?

A formal decision from your council on whether a project needs planning permission.

Get free quotes from vetted contractors

Tell us what you're planning, where the property is and when you'd like to start. We'll match you with a vetted local contractor. For anything urgent, call 083 056 8710.

What do you need help with?

Please choose what you need help with.

Please tell us where the property is.

When are you hoping to start?

Please choose when you'd like to start.

Do you own the property?

Please choose an option.

Urgent? Call 083 056 8710, the fastest way to reach us.

Rough budget (optional)
Where are you with the project? (optional)

Please enter your first name.

Please enter a valid phone number.

Please enter a valid email address.

Please tick to agree so we can pass your details to a contractor.

Thanks, we've got your details

We'll match you with a vetted local contractor and be in touch shortly.

For anything urgent, call 083 056 8710.