Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed Government proposals to update planning exemption rules for homes for the first time in almost 25 years.

The changes will allow homeowners to:

• Build a small detached unit to the rear of their home (32–45sqm)
• Subdivide their existing home to create an additional self-contained unit
• Extend their home up to 45sqm (up from 40sqm) without planning permission
• Increase the size of garden structures like home offices or gyms to 30sqm (up from 25sqm)
• Add dormer roof boxes and roof lights as part of extensions

Welcoming the proposals, Minister Canney said: “This is about giving people more flexibility when it comes to their own homes. Families’ needs change over time, and the planning system needs to reflect that.

“These changes will make it easier for people to extend, adapt or make better use of the space they already have, without unnecessary delays or bureaucracy.

“At the same time, it frees up planners to concentrate on the bigger projects that are critical to delivering housing at scale.”

The proposed regulations form part of the implementation of the Planning and Development Act 2024 and follow a public consultation process that received almost 1,000 submissions.

Minister Canney added: “There’s a real opportunity here to make better use of existing housing stock, whether that’s creating space for older family members, giving young people a chance to stay close to home, or adapting homes for modern living.

“It’s a practical step that will make a difference for households right across the country.”

The draft regulations are currently undergoing environmental assessment and will be brought before the Oireachtas for approval in due course, with a review planned 18 months after they come into effect.