The Irish government is considering new planning exemptions that would allow people to build detached cabins or modular homes on their land without planning permission. This comes following the passage of the Planning and Development Act and aims to provide an alternative housing solution for younger and older generations.
The Irish government is actively considering introducing new planning exemptions that would permit individuals to construct certain detached cabins or modular-style structures on their land without the need for formal planning permission. John Cummins, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, has recently engaged with officials from the Department of Housing to explore how these exempted developments can be streamlined.
This initiative follows the enactment of the Planning and Development Act in the Oireachtas shortly before the general election. Currently, planning exemptions in Ireland allow for a 40sq/m extension to the rear of a property, provided it is attached to the existing dwelling. Minister Cummins aims to introduce revised planning regulations that would remove this attachment requirement, aligning with a recommendation outlined in the Programme for Government. Sources indicate that these changes are intended to provide an alternative housing solution, enabling both younger and older generations to reside within their existing communities. However, it is acknowledged that such a measure will be most suitable in locations with ample space to the rear of the property.Officials are currently finalizing a comprehensive paper on this matter, and the Department of Housing will soon solicit submissions from all relevant government departments, many of whom are supportive of this proposed change. Subsequently, a public consultation process will be initiated. Sources suggest that Minister Cummins is keen to implement these exemptions as expeditiously as possible. They emphasize the Minister's stance that planning exemptions should facilitate intergenerational housing arrangements, allowing for a younger person to live independently of the family home in the short term, while providing their aging parents with the option to downsize within their own community, maintaining close proximity to their family for ongoing support. This planning exemption is anticipated to be one of several initiatives Minister Cummins will prioritize, including the implementation of the Planning and Development Act 2024 and the revised National Planning Framework, which aims to ensure a sufficient supply of zoned and serviced land to increase housing output. He will also seek to enhance Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) powers to activate underutilized land.
PLANNING EXEMPTIONS HOUSING CABINS MODULAR HOMES INTERGENERATIONAL HOUSING
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