520 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Part V of the Planning Acts applies to houses built on unzoned land (details supplied) where 60% of houses are subject to being available for short term rental; and if Part V is applicable to short term rental houses built in conjunction with hotel and golf clubs. [42473/06]

Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2006 applies to an application for permission for the development of houses on land that has been zoned for residential development or for a mix of residential and other uses. It does not, therefore, apply to unzoned land. Under the Acts, the definition of a house means a building, which is being or has been occupied as a dwelling, or is provided as use as a dwelling. It is a matter for the relevant planning authority to determine what planning applications are subject to Part V.