FAQ for planning permission

Igotadose

I've visited the government site on planning permission. I'm completely new to the process, never been involved with it at all, just moved to Ireland 5 years ago.

Is there an "FAQ" about obtaining planning permission? We're looking to build a studio near the house for various projects, we want it to include plumbing (shower,toilet) and electricity. It will likely be on the side of the house, though it is possible to fit it in behind the house though that's not preferable. There already exists a shed that takes up 18 sq meters of space (6x3) so the '25 square meter' limit I've read about that doesn't require planning permission, will be exceeded.


Is it "safe" to approach the county planning board with questions first, as to feasibility of such, best places to site the structure, etc? Or should we not approach them before we've consulted a builder/architect and have the plans 'ready to go'?

Thank you.

Gumbo

Check YOUR councils website. They usually have a FAQ.

Stanford

Retain an Architect or Engineer that is familiar with making planning applications to your Local Authority, this is no time to do a costly DIY job that could affect the value of your property in the years to come