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Extensions over 40 sq m (approximately 400 sq ft) require planning permission under current planning and development regulations.

Extensions up to 40 sq m can cover a surprisingly large amount of domestic projects which are exempt from planning. (This is within certain criteria, including the location of the extension and minimum distances to boundaries as well as other factors.) This should be advised further by an expert.

You should begin with engaging a qualified registered RIAI professional architect for your project. Qualified in the necessary skills to maximise the potential of your home and to achieve an exciting design, while meeting the needs of your brief.

 

Achieving planning permission

Achieving planning permission can sometimes compromise the design but this should not be the case as your extension is likely to be space that you will live in for many years to come and should therefore be given due care and attention.

Planning permission essentially gives Dublin City Council and neighbours a heads up about your build so they can lodge any concerns about the impact of your development. Your plans could conflict with the DCC development plan for the area, or compromise the neighbour’s privacy. When you receive planning permission details like this will been addressed before the project begins.

 

There are three types of planning permission

There are three types of planning permission:
Permission (often referred to as full permission, and is the most common type of application), outline permission, and permission consequent to outline permission.

Outline permission is an application to build on a particular site, and if granted before you start drawing up detailed development plans, will save you a lot of trouble and expense in the long run.

Permission consequent to outline permission occurs when outline permission is granted by the local authority.

 

What do I have to do before I apply?

 

What do I have to do before I apply?

You will need to give public notice of your proposals. Placing a notice in the local newspaper and putting up a notice onsite is required. The site notice has to remain in place for at least five weeks from receipt of the planning application. This gives neighbours another chance to voice opinions or concerns. Your application must be submitted to the local authority within two weeks of the notice appearing locally.

To apply for full permission you need detailed plans of your proposed project. It would be worth your time consulting a qualified architect or engineer with planning experience to advise you on your application before you submit it. This helps to ensure that there are no obvious mistakes or anything overlooked.

It takes about 8 weeks to get a decision from An Bord Pleanála but if they need more information it could take longer. If your local authority approves, you’ll get a notice of intention to grant planning permission. If no one appeals the decision to An Bord Pleanála within four weeks of the notice, then you’ll be granted full permission and you can start your build.

Outline permission is valid for three years and full permission is valid for five years.

You can download your application form on the www.dublincity.ie

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