A Planning Search provides a thorough investigation of planning matters for a property, covering both historical and current data in all relevant Local Planning Authorities throughout Ireland. This search is designed for solicitors, conveyancers, developers, and businesses to identify planning restrictions, obligations, or potential risks affecting a property.
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What This Search Covers
While standard conveyancing searches mostly relate to planning and development matters plus protected structures registers, Ellis & Ellis Planning Searches can (upon request) cover up to 30 separate headings, including:
Planning & Development
- Planning Applications
- Building-Bye Laws
- Land Use Zoning
- Road Widening
- Enforcement Notices
- Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs)
Heritage & Conservation
- Protected Structures
- National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH)
- Recorded Monuments
- Zones of Archaeological Interest & Potential
- Conservation Areas
- Natural Heritage Areas (NHA)
- Special Protection Areas (SPA)
- Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
- Specific Objections
- Warning Letters
- Major Accidents Directive Compliance
- Derelict / Vacant Sites
- Compensation Claims
- Section 47 Agreements
- Tree Preservation Orders
- Rights of Way
- Zoning Objectives & Designations
Building & Safety
- Building Control Data
- Fire Safety Certificate Data
Why Planning Searches Matter
Understanding planning and regulatory restrictions is critical for property development, investment, or conveyancing. Conducting a comprehensive Planning Search can:
- Identify legal or regulatory obligations affecting a property
- Highlight potential restrictions or liabilities before purchase or development
- Inform due diligence and risk management decisions
- Assist solicitors and conveyancers in advising clients accurately
Learn more about Planning Searches with our expert explainer.
Does Your Client Need A Planning Search?
Use this search if your client is:
- Buying, selling, or transferring property
- Planning property development or refurbishment
- Lending or mortgaging property assets
- Investigating planning compliance or potential enforcement issues
- Conducting due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, or investment in real estate
Turnaround & Delivery
- Manually conducted by expert Ellis & Ellis staff
- Ordered securely via the online platform
- Typically completed within 1–2 business days
- Delivered as a certified PDF report
- Includes a clear certificate of pending or completed planning matters
Request a Planning Search
Order your Planning Search via the Ellis & Ellis client portal, or contact our expert team to discuss your property due diligence requirements.
Planning Search FAQs
What is a Planning Search?
A detailed investigation of planning records and regulatory restrictions affecting a property in Ireland.
Which authorities are covered?
All Local Planning Authorities in Ireland.
Do Planning Searches include historic applications?
Yes, they include both past and current applications, notices, and records.
Can Planning Searches identify zoning or conservation restrictions?
Yes. Searches cover zoning, conservation areas, NIAH listings, protected structures, and heritage designations.
Are Planning Search results certified?
Yes. Ellis & Ellis provides certified PDF reports for all planning searches.
How long does it take to receive a Planning Search?
Typically within 3-5 business days, depending on the complexity and scope.
Is a Planning Search necessary for every property transaction?
It’s highly recommended for buyers, developers, lenders, and investors to understand potential legal and regulatory risks.
Why choose Ellis & Ellis for Planning Searches?
Over 135 years of experience, expert staff, certified reports, and comprehensive coverage across all planning authorities.