Retention planning permission, Dublin
Built without permission? We'll regularise it.
We apply for retention permission for every kind of property: homes, businesses and commercial premises. We draw up what was built, prepare the full planning application and lodge it with the local authority for you.
- RIAI registeredFull professional indemnity insurance
- Quote in hoursSend us the address and the work
- 19 yearsOf architectural practice
- DublinEvery Dublin local authority
What we regularise
Typical work that needs retention permission
If it was built without permission and doesn't meet the exemption rules, it can usually be regularised.
Rear and side extensions outside the exemption limits
Porches, garages and sheds outside the exemption limits
Dormer windows
Brick or render façade alterations
A rooflight to the front of the house
A new or widened vehicle entrance
Change of use
Commercial, a shopfront, or something else?
Send us the address →The basics
What is retention permission?
It is a planning application to keep work that was built without planning permission. The local authority assesses it like any other application, on how the development fits the development plan.
It usually comes up at one of three moments:
Local authorities typically grant retention permission in 85% of cases.
How it works
Four steps, and we handle the paperwork
You send the address. We do the survey, the drawings, the notices and the lodgement.
Tell us
Send the address, your details and the work. We quote within a few hours.Drawings
We survey and draw the work that needs retention permission.Application
We prepare the notices and forms, and lodge the application with the council.Decision
The council notifies its decision after 8 weeks. If there is no appeal, the grant follows 5 to 6 weeks later.
What we submit
Clear drawings the council can assess
A typical drawing for a retention application, with the work to be retained marked on the plan.
Questions
Common questions
What is the 7-year rule?
Local authorities are barred from taking enforcement action on development carried out 7 or more years ago. This does not grant permission by default, and solicitors will often still ask for retention permission to regularise the title.
How does enforcement work?
If the council sends a warning letter, you typically have four weeks to respond. If a retention application is lodged, the council usually suspends enforcement until it is decided, and closes the file if permission is granted.
Can you issue an Opinion on Compliance?
Yes, if required. We are registered with the RIAI and carry full professional indemnity insurance.
What does it cost?
Our fee depends on the extent of the work, and each application has fixed expenses payable to others. See the cost breakdown.
Send us the address. We quote within a few hours.
Or call the office on 01 485 3085.