Permitted Development in Ireland — Exempt Works Under Schedule 2 of the Planning Regulations
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Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 lists works you can do without planning. Domestic extensions under 40 m² with conditions.
Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) lists works you can do without planning permission. Class 1 is the most used: domestic extensions under 40 m² to the rear of a house, with conditions (must not exceed the ridge height, must not reduce light to neighbours, must not be used as a separate dwelling, must not extend forward of the front wall in a terrace or semi-D). Other classes cover agricultural works under €5,000, maintenance and improvement, certain outbuildings under 25 m², and some changes of use. Always get a Section 5 Declaration if you're not sure whether your project is exempt. €80, decision in 4–8 weeks, ruling is binding on the local authority.
When this matters most
You're planning a small extension or outbuilding and wondering if you need planning.
When this doesn't apply
You're building a new one-off house (always needs planning).
Sources
Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), Schedule 2. https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/
Frequently asked questions
What is permitted development in Ireland?
Development that doesn't need planning permission, listed in Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001. Class 1 covers domestic extensions under 40 m² with conditions. Other classes cover agricultural works, maintenance, and outbuildings.
Can I build an extension without planning permission in Ireland?
Yes, if it's under 40 m² to the rear of the house, doesn't exceed the ridge height, doesn't reduce light to neighbours, and isn't used as a separate dwelling. Class 1, Schedule 2, Planning and Development Regulations 2001.
What is the difference between exempt and permitted development?
Same thing in Ireland. Exempt development and permitted development are used interchangeably for works that don't need planning permission under Schedule 2.
When this matters most
You're planning a small extension or outbuilding and wondering if you need planning.
When this doesn't apply
You're building a new one-off house (always needs planning).
Where to go next
Next decision
The next step in your build sequence.
- Appeal to An Bord Pleanála — The 4-Week Window, €220 Fee, and 18-Week Decision →
- Common Planning Refusal Reasons in Ireland — The Six That Catch Self-Builders →
- Compliance Submission in Ireland — Discharging Planning Conditions Before You Build →
- Design Statement for Irish Planning — What Planners Look For and What Gets Refused →
- Do I Need Planning Permission in Ireland? The One-Question Test and the Few Exemptions →
- Northern Ireland Planning Permission — A Different Process Under the Planning Act (NI) 2011 →
- 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 →