1585. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the position regarding the ratification of the proposed exempted development regulations for residential dwellings. [54800/26]

The Planning and Development (Exempted Development (Act of 2000)) Regulations 2026, Nos 1-7, were signed on Thursday 16 July 2026 and came into effect from Monday 27 July 2026.

These Regulations amend and update Part 1 of Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended (2001 Regulations) to provide that:

• The existing exemption for extension of the principal dwelling will be increased from 40 square metres to 45 square metres;

• A new exemption will provide for extension via the addition of a dormer roof box and/or roof light on the principal dwelling;

• A new exemption for sub-division of the principal dwelling will allow for the creation of up to 1 additional self-contained unit within the existing building envelope, with a minimum floor area for each subdivided unit of 32 square metres;

• A new exemption for an auxiliary habitable dwelling will allow for the addition of a detached habitable accommodation linked to the services of the principal house, which may be between 32sqm and 45sqm in floor area;

• A new exemption will apply to insulation on external walls, in line with existing SEAI grant provision;

• The exemption for a heat pump will be expanded so that it is not restricted to the rear of the property;

• A new exemption will provide for cycle or bin storage at both the front and back of the property, with enough space to hold either 4 adult size bicycles, 2 cargo bikes or 3 wheelie bins;

• The existing exemption for a structure in the back garden (such as a shed, store, home office or gym) will be increased from 25 square metres to 30 square metres.