RetentionPermission.ie
Do you need to regularise some work to your home or business that you've done without planning permission? We can apply for retention planning permission on your behalf.
Typical work which can require retention planning permission include:
• Rear/side extensions (which don't meet the exemption criteria).
• Porches/garages/sheds (which don't meet the exemption criteria).
• Dormer windows.
• Brick/render façade alterations.
• Rooflight to the front of the property
• Provision of / widening of existing vehicular entrance.
• Change-of-use.
What is Retention Planning Permission?
Retention planning permission is when a planning application is made to retain work that was built without planning permission.
It is typically required when selling their house, obtaining a bank loan or when a local authority has issued a warning (enforcement) letter concerning potentially unauthorized development.
The local authorities typically grant retention permission in 85% of cases; they treat the application as if it is a regular planning permission according to how the development meets, or does not meet, the development plan.
The process is the same as with regular planning permission:
• Lodge retention planning permission.
• The local authority will issue a notification of decision to either grant or refuse permission after 8 weeks.
• If there are no objections the local authority will issue a decision to either either grant or refuse permission after a further 4 weeks.
What is the 7 year rule?
Local authorities are barred from serving enforcement action on developments that occurred 7 years ago or more; however, this does not give permission by default.
It is likely that solicitors will still seek retention permission for such unauthorized developments to regularise the title deeds of the property.
How does enforcement work?
If the local authorities send a warning letter about unauthorised development you typically have four weeks to respond.
The local authority will typically assign an inspector to investigate the case.
If the work requires permission and a retention application is lodged the local authority usually suspend the enforcement until the application has been completed. If permission is granted the enforcement file can be closed.
Who are we and what we do?
We're an Irish architectural practice with 17 years' experience; we undertake work in the Leinster region.
We will produce a set of drawings of the work that requires retention planning permission and then put together a full application including public notices, application forms etc. and lodge the application to the local authority.
If required we can issue Opinions on Compliance. We're registered with the RIAI and have full professional indemnity insurance.
How much does it cost?
Our fee will depend on the extent of work required; contact us for a quick quote:
Each application also has the following fixed expenses:
- from €102 fee payable to the local authority.
- €59 payable to the Ordnance Survey Ireland for a planning map.
- €172 for a newspaper notice.
How to start?
Fill out the contact form with your property address, email address, name and number and we will then send you a quote within a few hours. If it's agreeable we can have the application ready to lodge as soon as possible
Example of typical drawing submitted to Local Authority
