Planning exemptions to help homeowners to extend properties
NEW planning regulations are set to make it easier for homeowners to extend, adapt and improve their homes.
The regulations will come into effect this Monday, July 27 and are designed to reduce unnecessary planning applications for straightforward residential works.
They will also allow planning authorities to focus on more complex developments.
The changes aim to help homeowners make better use of existing housing by making it easier to extend or adapt homes as family circumstances change.
“These are practical, common-sense reforms that will make life easier for homeowners while cutting unnecessary red tape,” commented Junior Minister for Transport and Galway East TD Sean Canney.
“Many families want to adapt their existing home rather than move, and these changes will give them greater flexibility to do that."
Among the key changes sees the existing exemption for extension of a principal dwelling increased from 40 square metres to 45 square metres.
A new exemption will also provide for extensions via the addition of dormer roof boxes and roof lights on the principal dwelling.
The regulations for an auxiliary habitable dwelling will now allow for the addition of a detached auxiliary dwelling to the rear of the principal house, which is linked to the services of the principal house. It can be between 32 square metres and 45 square metres.
Provisions have also been put in place for works that involve the insulation of external walls, while heat pumps are no longer restricted to being installed to the rear of a property.
The existing exemption for a structure in the back garden (such as a shed, store, home office or gym) will also be increased from 25 square metres to 30 square metres.
"Making better use of the homes we already have is an important part of addressing housing needs,” added Minister Canney.
“Whether it's creating more living space, providing additional accommodation, improving energy efficiency or adding practical storage, these new exemptions will help people make those improvements more easily."