Information day in Portlaoise on new planning regulations

Laois County Council is hosting an information day for the new planning regulations that came into force during the summer.

A special event is being held in the Planning Department in County Hall on Friday, September 25 to provide an opportunity for planning agents, consultants and other industry professionals to learn more about the new requirements, procedures and timelines, and to engage directly with Council staff on their practical application.

The event will also provide an opportunity to discuss key issues and answer questions arising from the implementation of the new regulations.

New Planning Exemptions Regulations came into effect on July 27, aiming to free up planners and give homeowners greater freedom to adapt their homes to changing needs.

Among the changes was the exemption of the requirement to acquire planning permission for homeowners who wish to build modular units up to 45 square metres in their back garden.

Also exempted in the legislation from planning permission is bike or bin storage units in homeowners’ front gardens. The exemption will allow for storage units with enough space for either 3-4 adult-sized bikes, two cargo bikes, or three wheelie bins. The existing exemption for a structure in the back garden – like a shed, store, home office or gym – has been increased from 25 to 30 square metres.

A new exemption will allow for the provision of insulation on external walls of a dwelling, in line with existing SEAI grant provision.

The changes follow input from a comprehensive public consultation process undertaken in 2025 which received almost 1,000 submissions.

To attend the event register by email to [email protected].