COULD YOUR NEXT PROJECT NO LONGER NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

New Exempted Development Regulations are changing the way homeowners can extend, improve and adapt their homes.

Effective from 27th July 2026

The most significant changes to Ireland's exempted development regulations in almost 20 years. These new regulations make it easier for homeowners to extend, improve and adapt their homes without applying for planning permission - but only where specific conditions are met. In this article, we explain the seven key changes and what they could mean for your next project.

📐 Bigger House Extensions

✅ Rear extensions increased:

40m² ➜ 45m²

More space without planning permission (subject to conditions).

🏠 Rear Garden Homes

A detached garden house can now be exempt from planning (subject to conditions).

✔ Minimum 32m² ✔ Cannot be sold separately ✔ Must remain linked to the main house

🚪 Divide Your Home

One house can now be converted into 2 self-contained homes (subject to conditions).

🏗 Bigger Garden Sheds

Maximum exempt size increased:

25m² ➜ 30m²

Perfect for:• Home offices• Gyms• Workshops• Storage

🪟 Easier Attic Conversions

Planning permission no longer required for:

✔ Rear dormer windows✔ Side dormers✔ Up to 2 front roof windows (subject to conditions).

🚲 New Exemptions

Now exempt:

🚲 Bike stores

🗑 Bin stores

🧱 External wall insulation

🔥 Chimney removal

🌡 Heat pump rules simplified