Important changes to planning law are taking effect as the Planning and Development Act 2024 is being commenced on a phased basis.

Technical Glossary

Technical Glossary

This glossary is designed to help you understand planning terms used in the OPR’s online Planning Library. It provides a simple introduction to planning terms and related issues. The definitions are for guidance only and are not legal or statutory definitions or interpretations.

The glossary is grouped under four themes: Planning and Governance, Environment and Climate, Architecture and Built Heritage, and Engineering and Specialised Terminology.

The glossary is not complete, and the OPR welcomes suggestions for new terms or content. Please send any suggestions to info@opr.ie.

Important note: While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the OPR does not guarantee that the information is complete or up to date and accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. Please report any issues or comments to info@opr.ie.

Planning and Governance
Environment and Climate
Architecture and Built Heritage
Engineering and Specialised Terminology
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Disclaimer

The Planning and Development Act 2024 was signed into law on 17 October 2024. The Act is being commenced on a phased basis to facilitate a smooth transition from the existing legislation to the new legislation. It is important to note that transitional arrangements are in place. This means that certain elements of the work of the OPR remain under the previous legislation during this time.

This website will be updated at the earliest opportunity to correspond with the commencement of the various Parts of the Act.

Information on the commencement of the Act is available on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website.

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