Change of use in Dublin is not simply a matter of changing the business operating from a property. The planning question is whether the proposed use constitutes development requiring permission, whether an exemption applies and whether the use is acceptable under the relevant development plan.
How we can assist
We start by understanding the proposal, reviewing the available planning history and identifying the applicable planning authority and policy framework. The scope of any subsequent work is agreed before instruction.
When is change of use permission required?
A material change in the use of land or buildings can constitute development. Some changes may be exempt under applicable regulations, but exemptions depend on precise facts, conditions and limitations. A previous use, an existing permission or an advertised property description is not sufficient proof of lawful planning use.
Zoning and local policy
A proposal should be assessed against the applicable development plan, its zoning objective, relevant policies and standards. Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, South Dublin County Council and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council each administer their own areas. Particular attention may be needed for active street frontage, residential amenity, servicing, parking and conservation.
Commercial to residential conversions
Conversions can raise issues of minimum accommodation standards, daylight, ventilation, private amenity space, fire safety, protected structures and the status of the existing use. Certain statutory exemptions may apply in specific circumstances, but a site-specific review is essential.
Preparing an application
Typical material may include a planning statement, location and site plans, existing and proposed drawings, evidence of current use and additional specialist information where warranted. We can advise on the likely submission strategy and policy justification.
Why seek early advice?
A feasibility review can identify risks before lease commitments, property purchase, fit-out or detailed architectural design. It may also establish whether a formal declaration on exempted development should be considered.
Information to include with your enquiry
The more accurately we understand the site and proposed development, the more useful an initial response can be.
- Full property address and Eircode, if available
- Existing use and proposed use or works
- Any planning reference numbers, decisions or drawings
- Relevant timescales and known constraints
Questions worth considering
- What is the existing lawful use?
- Is the property in a conservation area?
- Will customers, traffic or servicing increase?
Request a planning assessment
Contact Ireland Planning on 01 223 2496 or send an enquiry using our contact page. We will explain the next practical step for your project.
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Planning law and local policy can change. Any general information on this page should be checked against the provisions in force and the specific property circumstances before relying on an exemption or commencing works.