Review of Permitted Development Rights - Development by Electronic Communications Code Operators (Mobile Telecommunications)

Overview

This public consultation is seeking your views on proposed changes to Part 18 of the Schedule to the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 - Development by Electronic Communications Code Operators.

The Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 (GPDO) sets out types of development which can be undertaken without requiring a planning application. These are referred to as permitted development rights and often relate to minor building works that have minimal impact to amenity and the environment. In most cases permitted development rights are subject to conditions and limitations specified in the GPDO. Proposed developments that do not fall within the scope of permitted development rights including any conditions, must be the subject of a planning application.

This consultation document forms part of the continuing review of permitted development rights being undertaken by the Department of Infrastructure in light of its approach to improved regulation. This is intended to provide a considered balance between reducing the regulatory burden on businesses and individuals (as well as reducing any associated costs) whilst at the same time providing sufficient regulation for the protection of the environment, amenity and public safety.

The Department is seeking your views on a range of proposals in relation to permitted development rights for Development by Electronic Communications Code Operators.

You are invited to submit your views online. Responses should be made in conjunction with the consultation document with references to paragraph numbers where relevant. The closing date for receipt of comments is 5.00pm, 23rd December 2026.

Why your views matter

The consultation focuses on a review of the existing permitted development rights for development by electronic communications code operators.

To ensure the permitted development rights under Part 18 of the Schedule to the GPDO remain fit for purpose, relevant and responsive to current and emerging development trends, the Department wishes to gather the views of interested parties to help inform any future legislative changes.

The Department encourages all interested parties to participate in the consultation process.