Exemptions for Change of Use from Commercial to Residential

This type of exemption has been introduced to speed up the delivery of much needed housing, to maximise the use of vacant underutilised spaces and to assist in the rejuvenation of inner-core urban areas.

How to Apply for a Change of Use Exemption

Write to the Planning Authority at least two weeks before your change of use and development works begin. Provide information on the location and details of the residential units being developed. Your development must meets the conditions and limitations set out in the form below. Submit the form by email or post.

Exemptions for Change of Use from Commercial to Residential Form

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Exemption Legislation

The terms of this exemption are laid out in the following legislation:

S.I. No. 648/2025 of the Planning and Development Act (Exempted Development) Regulations 2025 (see below)
Article 10 of the Planning and Development Regulations as amended by Statutory Instrument No. 30 of 2018

S.I No. 648 Statutory Instrument

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S.I. No. 30 of 2018 Statutory Instrument

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S.I. No.30 of 2018 Regulations

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S.I No. 75 of 2022

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The amendment relates to existing buildings that have a current commercial use and which fall under Class 1, 2, 3, and 6 or 12 of Part 4 to Schedule 2 of the Regulations.

The change of use, and any related works, must occur between 8 February 2018 and 31 December 2028. While the exempted development will be permanent in nature, the exemption can only be availed of for a temporary period.

If you receive an exemption, this does not remove the requirement that you comply with building regulations or any other code. Primary responsibility for compliance with the Building Regulations rests with the owners, designers and builders of buildings.