On the 7th of August 2026 the Government introduced new planning regulations for exempted developments ie work that does not require planning permission.
A summary of these is as follows.
- That the square footage for a development to qualify as exempt has been increased from 40 to 45 square meters.
- Dormer roof boxes and roof lights are now exempt.
- A house can be subdivided by creating a maximum of one extra unit provided that neither of the 2 units created are less than 32 square meters i.e. this can be done without planning permission.
- A detached auxiliary dwelling (presumably attached to the existing dwelling) will be exempt from planning if it is not less than 32 square meters and not greater than 45 square meters.
- External insulation is now exempt.
- Cycle/bin storage units front and back are exempt.
- Home Office/shed/stores which are between 25 and 30 square meters are now exempt.
It is important to note that even though the work which you wish to carry out may now be exempt from planning under the new regulations it will still be subject to building regulations, and it is important to discuss the planning requirements with your architect before making any assumptions that the works are exempt.
For further information on any property related matter please do not hesitate to contact Pauline Horkan, Sally-Ann McCoy or Louis McCarthy on 012960666
