What is a material change of use?

This depends on the circumstances of each situation. Generally, any change of use of a substantial nature which has an impact or potential impact on neighbours or the local community will need planning permission.

Examples include converting a garage to a workshop with a business use, establishing a crèche or opening a bed and breakfast with more than 4 guest bedrooms in your house. The planning authority can give a decision on whether they consider any particular change of use is significant enough to be "material" for planning purposes. The planning authority decision can be appealed to An Bord Pleanala.