Do you need planning permission for a trampoline in Ireland?

The short version

A trampoline in a private back garden is ordinarily treated as garden play equipment, in the same way as a swing or a climbing frame. Most families put one in without any dealings with the planning office.

That said, the rules can depend on the property and on the local authority. We cannot tell you what applies to your home, and nobody can without knowing the property.

When to check first

It is worth asking before you order if any of these apply:

• The house is a protected structure, or is in an area with special planning controls.
• You live in an estate or development where a management company sets rules for gardens.
• You rent the property. Ask the landlord, as a FlatGround or InGround involves digging.
• The job involves large groundworks, such as changing levels across the garden or building retaining walls.
• You are not sure where your boundary is, or the garden is shared.

Who to ask

Your local authority's planning office can tell you what applies to your property. In Northern Ireland, that is the planning office of your local council. A planning consultant, architect or engineer can also advise. If a management company is involved, ask them directly.

The installer, landscaper or builder doing your groundwork will know what the job involves and can describe it for you if the planning office asks.

A word on neighbours

Whatever the rules, it is good manners to think about where the trampoline goes. A FlatGround sits level with the lawn, so nobody is bouncing from a raised platform beside the boundary, and there is no frame on legs to look at over the fence.