Planning application

00011000

I just submitted my planning application for a change-of-use from a retail unit to a restaurant/on/off-trade alcohol usage.

Thing is, I'm not submitting the fire cert until after I get the planning as it costs €2000 and if I don't get the planning, then the €2000 will be wasted.

What I wanna know is when I can actually start work on the premises. Is it after I get the planning or after everything is approved. Some walls need to be knocked down etc.

MyPerfectCousin

The fire cert costs €2000? Which council?

Based on researching a similar planning situation and meeting with planners, there's nothing to stop you starting your building work before you get planning permission. You'd want to have a very good idea that you will get permission in advance, obviously. Technically, you can't start trading until you have PP sorted but as long as you aren't trading, you can work away on the unit.

MyPerfectCousin

Have a look at this.

http://www.dublincity.ie/WATERWASTEENVIRONMENT/DUBLINFIREBRIGADE/FIREPREVENTION/Pages/BuildingControlFireSafetyCertificatesFAQ.aspx#which%20developments%20are%20exempted%20from%20the%20requirement%20of%20a%20fire%20safety%20certificate

(I guess the cost is in having an engineer or special consultant do your fire safety report.)

This FAQ seems to say you can't do your work until you have the cert, however, since your is a change of use rather than a new build, that may not apply.

00011000

The fee is for the consultant in Wexford. It includes the disability cert that is required soon. The fee is fair enough I think after getting prices from a few different firms. It's interesting that I might not have to wait for the fire cert as it is a change of use. I'll definitely get that checked out. Thanks!

MyPerfectCousin

Don't take my word for it. Check with your council. I was just interpreting what I saw on the FAQ linked, which I looked up because I am also interested in this topic. Do share anything else you find out.

ricmac

It's a strict requirement of the Regs that you have a Fire Cert before you start work. The DAC can follow afterwards, but must be obtained before you occupy the premises.