Taking In Charge
What does "Taking in Charge" mean ?
The term “Taking in Charge” means that the Council assumes liability and responsibility for the roads, services, footpaths and public areas associated with a particular estate.
When a residential development is fully completed in accordance with all the conditions and particulars of the planning permission, the developer or the majority of home owners may make a written request to the Council to have the estate “Taken in Charge”.
Residential developments consisting of two or more dwellings that have been granted planning permission under Section 34 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, may be eligible (depending on the conditions attached to the planning permission) for taking in charge.
What are the services and structures usually subject to taking in charge?
It should be noted that when an estate is taken in charge, the roads servicing that estate are declared public roads and the estate must remain un-gated.
The Council will not maintain open spaces such as lawns, trees, etc.
The maintenance services to be provided by the local authority following the completion of the taking in charge process, may include any or all of the following:
- Roads and footpaths
- Public Lighting
- Sewers, watermains and service connections (in agreement with Uisce Éireann)
- Stormwater drainage
- Playgrounds (if relevant)
- Fire services including fire hydrants
It is important to note that the Council will not maintain open spaces within the development.
What estates in Waterford are "Taken in Charge" ?
Please see the latest list of estates and developments taken in charge across Waterford.
Download latest Taken in Charge list (May 2025) Download our 'Taking in Charge' policy
Where can I learn more ?
The Housing Agency and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have produced “Planning Leaflet 15” which is entitled ‘A Guide to Taking in Charge of Completed Residential Developments’.
Download Guide
