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Do I need planning permission for a greenhouse in Ireland?

Usually not. A domestic greenhouse to the rear of a house is treated the same as a shed under Class 2 of Schedule 2 to the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, and is exempted development provided its floor area, combined with other rear structures, stays within the 25 m² limit.

A greenhouse falls within Class 2 of Schedule 2 to the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), the same class that covers garden sheds and other small domestic outbuildings, since it is a structure ancillary to the enjoyment of the house.

Its floor area counts towards the shared 25 m² limit for all Class 2 structures on the property, so an existing shed or garden store reduces the space available for a greenhouse. It must be sited to the rear of the house, must not be used for human habitation, and at least 25 m² of private open space must remain in the garden after it is built.

A large commercial-style glasshouse, one built forward of the front wall, or one on a site where the 25 m² allowance has already been used up by other structures will not be exempted development and will need planning permission.

Before you build a greenhouse

Check the following:

  • Total floor area of the greenhouse plus any existing Class 2 structures stays at or below 25 m²
  • It is sited to the rear, not forward of the front wall
  • It will be used for domestic growing, not a commercial nursery business
  • At least 25 m² of private open space remains in the garden
  • Height fits within the limits set for the relevant roof type in Class 2
  • The property is not a protected structure or in a conservation area

Glass and polycarbonate greenhouses are treated identically for planning purposes — the material does not change the assessment, only the floor area and location do.

Commercial growing

If the greenhouse is intended for a plant-selling business rather than personal use, this is a change of use that needs planning permission regardless of size, and you should discuss the proposal with the local authority before proceeding.

Sources

Last reviewed 20 August 2026. General information only — not legal or planning advice.

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