Air conditioning

A/C and heat pump rules: planning, apartments and management companies

When you need planning permission, when you need your management company's consent, and the F gas rules your installer must follow.

Short answer

Most heat pumps and A/C units on houses are exempt from planning permission if they meet size, position and noise limits. Protected structures and conservation areas are different. In apartments you'll almost always need written consent from the management company before anything goes on an outside wall or balcony.

Planning exemptions for houses

The unit (or two units combined) is no larger than 2.5 m²
It's at least 50 cm from the edge of the wall or roof it's mounted on
Noise at the nearest neighbour's window is no more than 43 dB(A)
It's not on the front of the house
Ground level isn't changed by more than 1 m

Protected structures and conservation areas

Large parts of Dublin 2, 4, 6 and 8 are protected structures or architectural conservation areas, where the exemptions don't apply. Ask Dublin City Council for a Section 5 declaration (around €80) if you're unsure.

Interactive 3D guide

Not sure what you need?

See each system inside a home like yours, with what it does and what it costs.

Find the right system for my home

Apartments and management companies

External walls, roofs and balconies are usually common areas owned by the management company. Get written consent before you commit, and check the house rules on where outdoor units can go and how condensate is drained.

F gas and electrical rules

Anyone connecting or filling refrigerant pipework must hold an F gas certificate. The electrical connection must be done and certified by a Safe Electric registered electrician.

Is this right for you?

Your home isn't a protected structure or in a conservation area, or you've asked the council

The outdoor unit isn't on the front of the house

In an apartment: you have management company consent in writing

Your installer is F gas certified

Related guides

Air conditioning

How much does air conditioning cost to install in Dublin?

Single rooms to whole homes, with the running costs to match.

Heat pumps

Heat pump myths: noise, cold weather and older homes

The worries we hear most, and what's actually true.

Next step

Get your price range in 2 minutes

Seven quick questions about your home. You'll see the price before and after grants straight away, no contact details needed.

Start the estimator

Ready for quotes?

If your BER or technical assessment is done, we can put you in touch with vetted installers covering your area. It's free, and nothing is added to their price.

Find a vetted installer