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 2 metres from a public road, and within height limits.
- Up to 2m² can be exempt
- At least 2m from a public road
- Height limits apply
- Bigger porches need permission
When a porch can be exempt
Broadly, a porch outside an external door can be exempt when:
- Its floor area is no more than 2 square metres
- It's at least 2 metres from any public road or footpath
- Its height stays within the limits, which differ for pitched and flat roofs
When you'll need permission
- The porch is bigger than 2 square metres
- It's closer than 2 metres to a public road
- The house is a protected structure or in a conservation area
Costs
A porch in Dublin typically costs €8,000–€20,000. See porch building.
Frequently asked questions
How big can a porch be without planning permission?
Up to 2 square metres, provided it's at least 2 metres from a public road and within height limits.
Can I add a porch to a protected structure?
Not without permission. Exemptions don't apply to protected structures.
How much does a porch cost?
Typically €8,000–€20,000 in Dublin.
Find vetted contractors for this work
By area:
- North Dublin City: Artane, Cabra, Clontarf, Coolock, Drumcondra, East Wall, Fairview, Glasnevin, Phibsborough, Stoneybatter
- Dún Laoghaire & South Coast: Blackrock, Booterstown, Monkstown, Dún Laoghaire, Dalkey, Killiney
- Dublin North Coast: Raheny, Baldoyle, Donaghmede, Howth, Sutton, Portmarnock, Malahide
- South West Dublin: Tallaght, Citywest, Firhouse, Knocklyon, Ballyboden, Templeogue, Walkinstown, Kimmage, Rathfarnham, Terenure
- West Dublin & Leixlip: Chapelizod, Palmerstown, Lucan, Leixlip, Adamstown, Clondalkin
- Dublin 15: Blanchardstown, Castleknock, Mulhuddart, Ongar, Hansfield, Ashtown
- South Dublin City: Ballsbridge, Donnybrook, Sandymount, Ranelagh, Rathgar, Harold's Cross, Churchtown, Dundrum
- Stillorgan, Sandyford & Foxrock: Mount Merrion, Stillorgan, Goatstown, Sandyford, Cherrywood, Cabinteely, Foxrock, Deansgrange
- North County Dublin: Swords, Lusk, Rush, Skerries
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