Homeowners across Clare will be able to build larger extensions, create self-contained living accommodation and construct detached backyard dwellings without planning permission under new regulations coming into effect next Monday, July 27.
Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has welcomed the changes, describing them as one of the most significant updates to exempted development rules for homeowners in recent years.
The new regulations are aimed at cutting red tape while making it easier for people to adapt existing homes to meet changing family needs and increase housing capacity.
Deputy Cooney said the measures would give homeowners greater flexibility while easing pressure on the planning system.
“Having worked with the Minister and his officials on behalf of Clare homeowners through the Joint Committee on Housing, I look forward to these changes making a real difference for homeowners. Families will have more scope to extend their homes, older people will have more options to live independently close to loved ones and there will be greater opportunities to make better use of existing housing.
“At a time when we need to maximise every housing opportunity, it makes sense to remove unnecessary planning requirements for straightforward developments while maintaining appropriate safeguards.”
Among the key changes are an increase in the exempted size for house extensions from 40 square metres to 45 square metres and a new exemption allowing homeowners to build detached auxiliary dwellings of between 32 and 45 square metres to the rear of their homes, subject to specified conditions.
The regulations also introduce exemptions for the subdivision of an existing house into two self-contained units, external wall insulation, dormer roof boxes and roof lights, while increasing the exempted size of rear garden buildings, such as home offices and sheds, from 25 square metres to 30 square metres. The exemption for heat pumps has also been expanded.
Deputy Cooney said homeowners should be aware that conditions continue to apply.
“Anyone planning to avail of these exemptions should familiarise themselves with the regulations. Building and fire safety requirements remain in place and, in the case of detached auxiliary dwellings and house subdivisions, the local authority must be notified at least 14 days before work begins.”
The new exempted development regulations come into force nationwide on Monday, July 27.