The Government is considering easing regulations on cabins and modular homes placed in back gardens as part of its strategy to address housing supply challenges.
Planning changes not agreed yet…
Can I build a log cabin without planning permission?
Currently, homeowners can construct extensions up to 40 sq m without needing log cabin planning permission, but stand-alone habitable buildings of that size require approval if they are separate from the main residence.
You can read more about this proposed changes to log cabin planning here.
A proposal being crafted within the Department of Housing looks at planning exemptions which would allow independent modular or cabin-style residences (our one bedroom log cabins would be ideal here) to be built without log cabin planning approval.
Minister working hard…
John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, has recently conferred with officials regarding whether specific types of exempted developments could be expedited, particularly in light of planning legislation enacted last year. These reforms intend to facilitate “intergenerational transition” between the primary house and the smaller dwelling.
Probable size restrictions
The sizes of these structures would likely be capped at what is currently permissible without planning approval, akin to traditional home extensions. Consequently, any plan for construction exceeding 40 sq m would still require the necessary permissions.
Officials are in the process of finalizing a document on this initiative, which reportedly has backing from the Civil Service. Input will be solicited from all Government departments, and a public consultation is also on the horizon. Mr. Cummins is keen on an expedited introduction of these exemptions to log cabin planning.
If this measure receives approval, it would likely that log cabin planning be restricted to locations where ample land is accessible on the property.
The goal of the exemptions is to provide younger individuals, who are finding it challenging to enter the housing market, with the chance to live independently in the short term, with a potential future option for parents to transition into the smaller residence.
Certain matters still need to be clarified in the process, such as whether the structure can be sold independently of the main house in specific scenarios.
The Government is advancing with a range of reforms as it faces significant pressure regarding the housing crisis, particularly after failing to meet last year’s housing targets, which includes enhancing compulsory purchase order (CPO) powers. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the Government was unable to specify when new CPO powers would be enacted.
