Appeal to An Bord Pleanála — The 4-Week Window, €220 Fee, and 18-Week Decision
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You have 4 weeks from the local authority decision to appeal. Fee €220. ABP target is 18 weeks for a decision.
You have 4 weeks from the date of the local authority decision to lodge an appeal to An Bord Pleanála. Fee €220 for a first-party appeal (you vs the local authority) or €660 for a third-party appeal (a neighbour vs your grant). ABP target is 18 weeks for a decision, although complex cases can run to 24–30 weeks. About 40–50% of first-party appeals are granted, depending on the policy area. An appeal is a written submission that argues the local authority's decision was wrong on policy or on the facts. A planning consultant or solicitor can prepare it for €1,500–€3,500. Most appeals are decided on the file (a written decision from an ABP inspector) without an oral hearing; an oral hearing is granted in complex cases and adds 8–12 weeks to the timeline.
When this matters most
You've been refused planning and are considering an appeal.
When this doesn't apply
You've been granted planning or are on site.
Sources
An Bord Pleanála, Appeals — fees and procedures. https://www.pleanala.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to appeal a planning decision in Ireland?
4 weeks from the date of the local authority decision. Strict deadline — no extensions. Appeal goes to An Bord Pleanála (ABP).
How much is an ABP appeal?
€220 for a first-party appeal (you or your agent vs the local authority). €660 for a third-party appeal (a third party vs your grant).
How long does an ABP appeal take?
18 weeks target for a decision, although complex cases can run to 24–30 weeks. Oral hearings add 8–12 weeks.
When this matters most
You've been refused planning and are considering an appeal.
When this doesn't apply
You've been granted planning or are on site.
Where to go next
Next decision
The next step in your build sequence.
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- Compliance Submission in Ireland — Discharging Planning Conditions Before You Build →
- Design Statement for Irish Planning — What Planners Look For and What Gets Refused →
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- Northern Ireland Planning Permission — A Different Process Under the Planning Act (NI) 2011 →
- Permitted Development in Ireland — Exempt Works Under Schedule 2 of the Planning Regulations →
- Planning Application Fee in Ireland 2026 — €65 for a House, Plus Other Charges You Should Know →
- Planning Application Pack in Ireland — Drawings, Design Statement, and Site Reports →
- Pre-Planning Consultation in Ireland — A Free 30 Minutes That Can Save a Refusal →
- Section 5 Declaration in Ireland — €80, 4–8 Weeks, and a Binding Answer on Whether You Need Planning →