Dublin City’s Record of Protected Structures

A protected structure is a building or structure that Dublin City Council considers to be of special interest. This includes buildings or structures with architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or special technical features.

The current Record of Protected Structures (Volume 4 of the 2022-2028 Dublin City Plan) took effect on 14 December 2022.

Why Are Structures Protected?

When a property is protected, all future changes to the structure are controlled and managed to ensure its character is preserved. Works that are normally exempt can require permission if they would affect the building’s special features.

Structures are added to the Record of Protected Structures to:

• preserve architectural and cultural heritage.
• protect important buildings from wrongful changes or demolition.
• manage changes in a way that respect the building's character and significance.

If a structure meets the criteria, it is added to the Record of Protected Structures and gains legal protection.

Protection applies to:

• the structure's exterior.
• the structure's interior.
• surrounding lands and outbuildings.
• any fixtures, features or structures within that area.

Responsibilities of Building Owners

Owners and occupiers of protected structures must ensure that the structure and all elements of it are not endangered. This means actively preventing neglect, harm, decay or damage.

If a protected structure is endangered, the planning authority can serve a notice ordering the owner to carry out necessary work. There are penalties for owners or occupiers who fail to carry out such work.

Nomination Form

Building owners or members of the public can make a request for a structure to be added or removed from the Record for Protected Structures. You can also request a change to the conditions placed on an existing protected building or structure.

To request an addition, deletion or change, fill out the application form below and send it to the Conservation Department by email or post - see below for contact details.

For more information on the nomination process, see adding to Dublin's Record of Protected Structures for a step by step guide.