Planning required for Velux windows on front of roof?

the_amazing_raisin

Hi, want to double check something here. We're considering an attic conversion and would like a couple of velux windows for light

We've solar panels all over the rear of the roof and I don't want to lose a row for the windows. So we're looking to install them on the front of the roof

Am I right in saying we'd require planning permission for them?

In people's experience, are planners accepting of smaller velux windows to the front? I'm guessing a big quad window will be rejected so I'm trying to keep it realistic

Would a dormer be more achievable? None of the other houses on the road have them so I'm guessing not

Middleage Fanclub

We converted our attic and put two Velux's to the back and a 3rd facing to the front. The difference being, the one facing the front was above the stairwell so there was no way we could look out of the window (well, only straight up).

Tippbhoy1

Dormer at the front definitely requires planning. Velux, not sure. I’m still thinking yes but that’s not 100 %. I think on the side is ok. Well I hope so, cos I’ve done that.

muffler

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058378838/planning-required-for-velux-windows-on-front-of-roof

An Bord Pleanala have concluded on several occasions that velux windows to the front are exempt development but these were most likely site specific cases. Over the years various Councils were of the opinion that PP was required. I have no idea what way the various Councils are swinging these days with regards to velux windows. Your best bet may be to make a Section 5 application.

the_amazing_raisin

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122789021#Comment_122789021

Yeah Fingal used to have a set of guidelines for exempt developments, but I can't seem to find it now

Some independent sources indicate planning is required, however the best option is to probably go for the section 5 exemption and see how it goes

Mellor

There is no legal exemption for velux windows anywhere on a roof, front or back. Some councils are will be consider then them exempt, sometimes to the rear only, sometimes front or back. Check with your local authority.

Gumbo

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122788910#Comment_122788910

Planning required. Or in your case, retention when your selling.

Gumbo

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122789021#Comment_122789021

I’m seeing in Dublin councils that they require planning and specifically need to be mentioned on the public notices.

muffler

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122800878#Comment_122800878

Yeah and this is one of the many problems with the planning system throughout the country where decisions are made based on interpretation of wording that isnt even there in the first instance. Even when ABP state one thing the planning authorities are loathe to change their opinions. Below is one ABP determination that 3 velux to the front of the roof and 3 to the back are exempt….in Dublin and in an Architectural Conservation Area.

Reference No.: RL06D.RL3396

Details of Reference: Whether the 3 no. rooflights in the front roof plane and the 3 no. rooflights in the rear roof plane is or is not development or is or is not exempted development

NOW THEREFORE An Bord Pleanála, in exercise of the powers conferred on it by section 5 (3) (a) of the 2000 Act, hereby decides that the said 3 no. rooflights in the front roof plane and the 3 no. rooflights in the rear roof plane of ‘Beechtrees’, Torquay Road, Foxrock, Dublin 18, located within Foxrock Architectural Conservation Area is development and is exempted development.

Gumbo

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122800925#Comment_122800925

In saying that, I haven’t been refused planning for any front Velux in many years now so the current generation of planners seem to be accepting of them nowadays.

Mellor

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122788910#Comment_122788910

Whether you can look out the window or not makes no difference to planning.