Derelict Sites

The Derelict Sites Act, 1990 allows the local authority to prosecute owners who do not comply with notices served, to purchase land compulsorily and to carry out necessary work themselves and charge the owners for the cost.

The Local Authority also keeps a register of derelict sites including valuations.

• Derelict Sites Register
• What is a derelict site?
• What if my property is a derelict site?
• How do I provide information on a derelict site in my area?
   

Derelict Sites Register

A full copy of the Derelict Sites Register is available for viewing during office hours at the Property Management Department, Limerick City and County Council, Merchant’s Quay, Limerick or a summary version can be downloaded HERE.

What is a derelict site?

Legally a derelict site means any land which detracts, or is likely to detract, to a material degree, from the amenity, character or appearance of land in the neighbourhood of the land in questions because of the following. 

• The existence on the land in question of structures which are in a ruinous, derelict or dangerous condition.
• The neglected, unsightly or objectionable condition of the land or any structures on the land in question.
• The presence, deposit or collection on the land in question, of any litter, rubbish, debris or waste, except where the presence, deposit or collection of such litter, rubbish, debris or waste results from the exercise of a right conferred by statute or by common law.
   

What if my property is a derelict site?

You are required by law to make sure your property does not become derelict or you may become liable for prosecution by your local authority.

Limerick City and County Council will advise you through a series of statutory notices on what action is needed and whether the local authority intends to carry out the necessary works on your site or if your property is being added to the Derelict Sites Register. If so, a fee may be levied.

In some cases a compulsory purchase may be pursued.

Under the Derelict Sites Act, 1990 it is an offence to:

• Remove, damage or deface a notice posted by the local authority regarding a derelict site.
• Fail to carry out the measures required by the local authority to prevent a property from being classed as derelict within an allotted time.
• Fail to notify the local authority of the transfer of land or interest in land (other than by will or on an intestacy) from one person to another. Both parties must notify the local authority in writing within four weeks of the transfer.
• Fail to notify the local authority of the transfer of land or interest in land by will or on an intestacy. The new owner must notify the local authority in writing within six months and the representative of the person under whose will or upon whose intestacy the transfer occurred must notify the local authority in writing within two months.
• Prevent an authorised person from entering or carrying out authorised business on the derelict site. The owner can make statutory submissions or responses regarding the notices they receive. However you are advised to contact the Department directly to discuss issues as they arise and reach a solution.
   

How do I provide information on a derelict site in my area?

If you wish to speak to somebody about a derelict site in your area please contact Property & Community Facilities.

Property Management Department
Limerick City and County Council
Merchants Quay
Limerick
V94 EH90

Phone: +353 61 557037

Thanking you in advance for your support as we try to address dereliction, vacancy and re-use in your area.