Homeowners and self-builders in ROI can now have their say on a major overhaul of the planning exemption rules, with a four-week public consultation launched this week.

In this article we cover:

  • What’s included in the proposed new planning exemptions.
  • How long the consultation will run and how to make a submission.
  • Why these changes could make self-builds and renovations more straightforward.
  • What Ministers are saying about the impact on housing, ageing in place and planning system delays.

The government has launched a four-week public consultation on proposed changes to Exempted Development regulations — the rules that determine which works can be carried out without planning permission.

The draft regulations aim to expand the list of exempted developments, meaning you could soon avoid the time and cost of a full planning application to carry out certain small-scale projects.

Key proposals under review include:

  • Attic conversions, including rooflights
  • Heat pump installations
  • Subdivision of existing dwellings, to support multi-generational living and ‘ageing in place’
  • Detached habitable garden buildings, including modular homes for relatives or carers

According to Minister for Housing James Browne, the move will reduce pressure on local authority planners, allowing them to focus on larger-scale housing projects:

“Being able to easily and simply adapt dwellings to meet changing needs could have a significant impact on people’s lives.”

The consultation is being carried out as part of the implementation of the Planning and Development Act 2024, with updated regulations expected later this year following a review of public feedback.

Deadline for submissions:

The consultation will run until 5pm on Tuesday 26, August 2025. Submissions can be made online via the Department of Housing’s website.

Minister of State for Planning John Cummins said the proposed exemptions represent “common sense” measures that could simplify housing delivery and reduce delays in the planning system.

Minister of State for Older People Kieran O’Donnell also highlighted the importance of enabling older adults to remain in familiar homes and communities through flexible adaptations.