Using concrete planters as a boundary... planning permission required?

mrcheez · 18-11-2024 08:19PM #1

I want to create a boundary at the front of my property, but instead of a wall I would like to use concrete planters that won't be fixed to the ground.

e.g. something like these, but perhaps rectangular versions that are basically the size of 2 put together. Height of each is about 50-75cm.

Do these still need planning permission to place, similar to building a boundary wall?

They will be "movable" in theory, though practically they will be too heavy to move easily, unless emptied.

Mellor · 19-11-2024 11:59AM

Building on the boundary with solid planters would (and should) be treated exactly like a boundary wall or fence.

If it is less than 1.2 metres tall, then there is a planning exemption.

mrcheez · 19-11-2024 12:19PM

I always assumed building meant gluing something to the ground with cement or similar, rather than placing pots ?

Gumbo · 19-11-2024 12:47PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122856738#Comment_122856738

The key word is structure.
There’s no such thing as temporary or other.

Mellor · 19-11-2024 12:58PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122856738#Comment_122856738

Did you also assume that your house is glued to the ground in some way?
It isn't. It's pretty much in place purely because its heavy.

mickdw · 19-11-2024 01:04PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122856934#Comment_122856934

It might not be glued but try moving it and see how you get on.

The planters should be fine anyway.

Mellor · 19-11-2024 01:21PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122856968#Comment_122856968

Did you not read the second sentence? Not sure where moving it comes in to it.

The point is that a garden wall is only "placed" too, and stays there due to its weight. The fact larger planters are placed doesn't exclude them from being development when bounding a site.

I've seen external planters weighing 1000kg when filled. I think I'd rather try move a boundary wall by hand. 🤣

mickdw · 19-11-2024 02:06PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122857048#Comment_122857048

It was a joke!

mrcheez · 19-11-2024 02:14PM

So lighter pots are not in same category?

If it's based on weight I could opt for smaller pots instead

mrcheez · 19-11-2024 02:29PM

Just spoke with planning dept and they said planters are not considered a structure regardless of size and weight. Said there is a clear distinction between those and a wall.

No planning permission required as long as under the 1.2m

Good to know 😀

Mellor · 19-11-2024 03:01PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122857242#Comment_122857242

it’s nothing to do with weight.
That was only to highlight that your house isn’t “glued down”.

Lightweight structures are still structures.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122857302#Comment_122857302

The “regardless of size” part is contradicted by the “under 1.2m” part.

If they weren’t counted, they’d be no limit. But they are, so exempt development up to 1.2m applies, as per the first reply.

Using concrete planters as a boundary... planning permission required?

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