If renting out a granny flat requires no structural changes, is permission required?

Cianos · 29-03-2024 11:49AM #1

Hello. I am looking at a house I'm considering purchasing. A corner of the house (currently consists of half a garage, a bedroom, a walk-in closet and a shower/toilet) could be utilised as a granny flat.

The only works required to do so would be to have an internal door between the garage and the walk-in wardrobe, and converting the walk-in wardrobe to a small kitchenette/dining area.

From what I've read, these works in and of themselves would not require planning permission. However if the intended usage was in effect a granny flat, is permission required?

The bedroom would still be connected to the rest of the house, however occupants may prefer to keep this door locked.

Is granny-flat permission based on type of usage, rather than actual structural changes? Thanks

yurtyaherne · 29-03-2024 12:47PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058344084/if-renting-out-a-granny-flat-requires-no-structural-changes-is-permission-required

Yes, the permission is based on the type of usage. A condition similar to the below is normally attached to any grant of planning permission.

sydthebeat · 29-03-2024 05:07PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058344084/if-renting-out-a-granny-flat-requires-no-structural-changes-is-permission-required

100% yes, planning required.

And you cannot "rent out" a granny flat without permission as well.

Essentially your looking for planning permission for a rentable independent property

Kaisr Sose · 29-03-2024 05:35PM

100% agree. People are trying it on with granny flats for non existent family members all over the place.

I have personal experience of a neighbour trying this without planning. We objected and they had to apply for retention. The granted permission had explicit conditions itmay not be rented out, save as part of the whole dwelling and access to the main property must be maintained (no subdivision). The neighbour immediately proceeded to subdivide and rent it out (which was their intention all along). We immediately reported this to the council and are waiting developments.

Mellor · 03-04-2024 01:47AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121952687#Comment_121952687

Catch 22. That condition can only be attached to a grant of permission. If no permission is required, the council has no ability to condition usage.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121953544#Comment_121953544

That's the intent for a independent property Which needs planning when as it creates a separate property.

But renting out a room within a single dwelling does not require planning. It is a bit of a loophole to the granny flat issue

If renting out a granny flat requires no structural changes, is permission required?

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