New planning exemptions to support farmers across Mayo – Dillon

The introduction of new planning exemption regulations will allow farmers across Mayo to increase slurry storage capacity and construct additional housing for cattle without the need to seek planning permission, said Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

He said the new regulations will cut red tape, reduce costs, and enable farmers to invest quickly to meet environmental standards.

The key changes in regulations include, animal housing size increased by 50%: from 200 sqm to 300 sqm per structure; aggregate total increased: from 300 sqm to 450 sqm per farm holding; new exemption for slurry storage: stand-alone tanks of up to 1,000 cubic metres, subject to a total farm storage of 1,500 cubic metres.

Minister Dillon said: “This is a very positive development for farmers in Mayo and across the west of Ireland. These changes will make it easier for family farms to invest in modern facilities, improve animal welfare, and meet environmental standards without being tied up in unnecessary planning procedures.

“For the first time, there will be a planning exemption for stand-alone slurry storage, alongside a 50% increase in thresholds for animal housing. These measures will support farmers investing in their enterprises, improve water quality, and enhance animal welfare, while reducing administrative burden.

“Adequate slurry storage is critical for protecting water quality. While well-designed animal housing supports higher standards of care for livestock. By streamlining the process, we are giving farmers the flexibility to plan for the future, reduce costs, and strengthen the sustainability of their enterprises.

“I want to acknowledge Minister Cummins and Minister Heydon for prioritising these exemptions. They will make a real difference to farmers on the ground, particularly in Mayo where agriculture is the backbone of our rural economy.”