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Planning permission is required by law for the development of land or property unless
the development is specifically exempted from this need. It is obtained from the relevant
planning authority dealing with the specific area.
When do I need planning permission? Generally, you need planning permission for
any development of land or property unless the development is specifically exempted from
this need. The term development includes the carrying out of works (building, demolition,
alteration) on land or buildings or the making of a material (i.e. significant) change of
use of land or buildings.
Are there different types of permission? • Outline Permission
• Permission Following the Grant of Outline Permission
• Full Planning Permission • Permission for Retention
Where do I apply for Planning Permission? Planning Permission is obtained from the planning
authority for your area i.e. Mayo County Council, Ballina Town Council, Castlebar Town council
or Westport Town Council.
How long will it take?
This will be affected by the completeness of the application and by whether there is
an appeal or not. Generally speaking a properly completed application will be dealt with by
a planning authority in 3 months from the date of application to the final grant of
a permission.
Can I consult the planning authority in advance?
You do not have to consult the planning authority before making a planning application but it
is often advisable to do so where you are unsure of local planning policies, how to
apply, etc. Mayo County Council offers Planning Clinics in the local area offices on Wednesday
mornings between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm.
What information must be contained in a valid planning application?
There may be specific requirements depending on the type of development you want permission
for. However, in general, a valid application must always:
• Meet all the requirements for public notice (newspaper notice and site notice)
• The name and address of the applicant, the area and location of the land or structure
concerned and the legal interest of the applicant • Contain all the required plans, maps and
drawings and a schedule listing the plans, maps and drawings
• Be accompanied by the page of the newspaper showing the newspaper notice and a copy of
the site notice erected • Be accompanied by the appropriate fee