Is Living in a Shed Allowed in Ireland?
03.02.2025
With rising property costs and a growing interest in simpler, sustainable lifestyles, the tiny living movement is gaining traction in Ireland. Tiny homes and innovative solutions like converting garden sheds into livable spaces offer unique, affordable alternatives to traditional housing.
As housing prices continue to soar, people are increasingly interested in more compact living solutions that offer affordability and sustainability and the idea of converting a garden shed or storage shed into a livable area is becoming increasingly popular. This trend not only offers a unique way to utilise existing structures but also aligns with the growing interest in minimalist living.
While the concept of living in a shed might seem appealing, the reality in Ireland is far more complex.
Planning permission and legal requirements around building a shed to live in
In Ireland, you cannot simply convert a garden shed into living space. Planning regulations are strict, and structures intended for human habitation require specific permissions and must meet building standards.
The Planning and Development Regulations¹ explicitly state that garden sheds cannot be used as a residence. This applies across the board, regardless of the duration or circumstances of the intended occupancy.
To legally create a livable space in your garden, you would need to apply for planning permission to build what’s known as a granny flat or ancillary accommodation (typically called garden houses).
Irish planning regulations for residential sheds
When it comes to sheds that can be lived in the regulations are clear:
For safety reasons, any structure that intends to be used for residential purposes needs planning permission whether or not it falls within the exempted size limits.²
If you are planning on turning an existing shed into living space you will also need to apply for planning permission under the change of use guidelines. ³
Required permits and documentation
To legally build sheds that can be lived in, you need to:
- Submit a detailed planning application to your local authority – this includes documents proving you own the property and have the right to carry out work.
- Provide architectural drawings, blueprints, and site plans.
- Prove that you have consulted with your neighbours and local community and there have been no objections to your proposed residential shed.
- Demonstrate compliance with building regulations.
- Obtain approval before commencing any construction work.
Local authority variations
Regulations on residential builds can differ from one local authority to the next. It’s essential to consult with a planning expert or your local authority before beginning construction. They will be able to give you the specific requirements and steps to follow for your area. Alternatively, you can see if your local authority has a website which might detail everything you need for your local area.
When building a residential property, even something as small as a shed, it never hurts to be as cautious as possible. The rules are in place for the benefit of everyone and taking the extra time to consult with a professional will save you time, money, and a potential legal minefield later on.
Here is a general overview of planning permission in Ireland to get you started with understanding the process behind building a legally compliant structure.
Building regulations compliance
If you plan on living in a shed, it must comply with standard building regulations. These are:
- Proper insulation: Ireland is wet, cold, and windy!
- Adequate ventilation: Since Ireland is so wet, sealing in moisture will only lead to damage and harmful mould spores growing.
- Fire safety measures: Using fire-safe materials, installing smoke alarms, and making sure you can evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
- Electrical and plumbing standards: If you want to live like a modern person, these need to be installed safely to prevent fires and ensure waste is removed effectively.
- Energy efficiency requirements: Keeping those bills down is always an advantage!
Zoning considerations
Zoning⁴ determines how land can be used in your area–whether for residential, commercial, or other purposes. Depending on your location, zoning laws may limit your ability to add a livable shed, so it’s important to check before proceeding.
Additional tips for good practice:
- Goodwill: Discussing your plans with neighbours beforehand can help prevent objections later. Assure them that your build will be discreet and share expected timelines to minimise disruption.
- Rental potential: if you think you might rent out your space for student accommodation or as an Airbnb down the line, make sure you are familiar with any extra requirements for your area.
- Knowledge is power: working with a professional and experienced provider like Summerhouse24 will help to eliminate any potential costly mistakes you might make going it alone. Our team is up to date on all the latest rules and regulations and can offer expert advice on getting permission for your builds.
Living in a shed in Ireland
It’s important to understand what constitutes a livable structure in Ireland and the legal implications involved. In this context, we’re not really talking about traditional garden sheds, but rather structures often referred to as granny annexes, granny flats, or garden rooms.
These are purpose-built living spaces that, while separate from the main house, are designed for habitation and comply with relevant regulations. In Ireland, you may never live in a traditional garden shed as these are not fit for purpose.
So, what constitutes a liveable shed in Ireland?
A liveable shed in Ireland must meet specific criteria to be considered legal for habitation. These structures typically need to:
- Have proper planning permission
- Meet building regulations for residential spaces
- Have adequate insulation, ventilation, and heating
- Include proper plumbing and electrical systems
- Provide sufficient living space as per local authority guidelines
Now, let’s explore various types of structures that people might consider for alternative living arrangements.
Traditional wooden sheds
Traditional wooden sheds, while excellent for storage, are not typically suitable for living. They lack the necessary space, insulation, utilities, and structural integrity required for habitation. To make living in a storage shed viable, it would need to undergo extensive modifications and you would need planning permission.
It’s not advisable to simply start living in a garden shed without securing the right permission, thinking nobody will ever know. Recently, councils have been clamping down on backyard builds after a rise in neighbour complaints – it’s simply not worth the hassle.⁵
Metal sheds
Metal sheds are primarily designed for storage or workshop purposes. They’re not suitable for living and would require significant modifications to meet residential standards. Even then, they would likely not meet planning requirements for residential use.
Modern prefabricated units
Modern prefabricated units, often marketed as tiny homes or modular homes, can be designed to meet living standards. However, in Ireland, these still require proper planning permission and must comply with the building regulations outlined above.
While these can be more easily adapted for living compared to traditional sheds, they still need to go through the proper legal channels for approval.
Converted agricultural buildings
Sometimes people consider converting agricultural buildings like barns into living spaces. This process requires:
- Change of use planning permission
- Extensive renovations to meet residential building standards
- Compliance with local zoning laws
- Preservation of the building’s character if it’s in a protected area
Custom-built living spaces
These could be referred to as large sheds to live in, but typically go by the name granny annex, granny flat, summer house, or garden room. These are purpose built structures that can be designed to meet all the planning permission requirements for a habitable structure. Working with prefab tiny house models from Summerhouse24 can save time and ensure your project meets the legal standards in your area.
Conclusion
While the idea of living in a shed or similar structure might seem like a simple solution to housing needs, the reality in Ireland is more complicated. You should always consult with local planning authorities and legal advisors before considering living in a shed to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Sources:
- https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2022/si/419/made/en/print
- https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/housing/planning-permission/planning-permission-for-altering-a-house/
- https://planningpermissionireland.ie/commercial-planning-and-development/change-of-use-planning-permission/
- https://www.mhc.ie/glossary/zoning
- https://extra.ie/2024/04/22/news/irish-news/councils-target-backyard-cabins
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