Commencement Notice for Building Works

The following is for general information purposes only. All further queries regarding this information should be directed to the competent authorities listed below.

The purpose of a Commencement Notice is to notify the relevant building control authority that a person intends to carry out either building works or a material change of use to a building to which the Building Regulations apply.

When is a commencement notice is required?

All works which require planning permission include:

1. The erection of a building
2. A material alteration of a building
3. An extension to a building
4. A material change of use of a building
5. Works in connection with the material alteration (excluding minor works) of a shop, office or industrial building where a Fire Safety Certificate is not required.

The notice must be given to the authority not more than 28 days and not less than 14 days before the commencement of works or the change of use. Once validated by the building control authority, works must commence on site within the 28 day period.                                

Building Control Management System

The Building Control Management System (BCMS) was developed to enable the electronic submission of Commencement Notices, Certificates of Compliance and all required documents associated with these statutory requirements to local authorities.

Fees

The current fee for submitting a commencement notice on the BCMS is €30 per building/unit.

Further Information

LocalGov.ie - Planning and Buildings section

Additional information in regards to commencement notices and details of the required documentation can be found in the frequently asked questions section of the LocalGov.ie website.

Contact Information

BCMS Contact Form

Email: buildingstandards@housing.gov.ie