Share this article:
In 2018, the Government introduced new exemptions from the normal requirement to obtain planning permissions for certain developments.
These are under the Planning and Development Act 2000 by way of Statutory Instrument No. 30 of 2018 – the Planning and Development Act (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2018.
The most significant exception introduced in 2018 allowed certain vacant commercial premises, including vacant areas above ground floor premises, to be converted to residential use without the need for planning permission. Certain conditions apply, including:
- The exemption applies to the conversion of vacant commercial premises to residential use only up to a maximum of nine residential units
- The building must have been vacant for at least two years immediately prior to work beginning
- A planning authority must be notified in writing of the details of the development at least two weeks prior to the commencement of the proposed change of use
These exemptions were amended to broaden eligible premises in 2022, and the exemption period was extended to 31st December 2025.
Per the direction of Minister of State John Cummins issued on 23rd December 2025, this exemption period has again been extended to 31st December 2028, with the eligibility requirements outlined in 2022 remaining in place. For full details, click here.
We direct members’ attention to the CIF’s submission on this matter, to the Review of Exempted Development Regulations, submitted in August 2025 here.