LEGISLATION TO ALLOW homeowners to build modular units up to 45 square metres in their back gardens without planning permission will be passed by the Dáil summer recess. 

Speaking to reporters at Government Buildings on Tuesday, Minister of State in the Department of Housing John Cummins said Friday is the closing date for environmental submissions, and it is his intention for the law to be before the Oireachtas Housing Committee in the first week in July. 

The legislation will be signed into law thereafter, he said. 

Currently, planning exemptions allow a 40 square metre extension to the rear of a property once it’s attached to the house.

However, under the new rules structures up to 45 square metres, and which are placed at the bottom of someone’s garden will be permitted without planning. 

The legislation also addresses other planning matters such as giving exemptions for dormer windows, attic conversions as well as splitting houses in two into separate dwellings. 

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“Obviously, it’s very significant measure. It’s part of our housing plan. It’s about providing options for people,” said Cummins, stating that it will be a suitable option for many people.

He said it is about trying to remove as much red tape as possible, and “get out of the way” when it comes to providing housing options for people.

“I think it has been received really well by the public. There’s a lot of anticipation for it, and we look forward to getting it done before summer recess,” said Cummins.