Maritime Area Consent (MAC)
What is this licence?
The Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 establishes a new marine planning system. This consists of a new licensing and development management regime from the high water mark to the outer limit of the State’s continental shelf.
It's administered by the following bodies:
- An Bord Pleanála
- The coastal local authorities
- The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA)
While MARA is not responsible for granting development permission, it facilitates a streamlined consenting process for developers. It also assesses applications for Maritime Area Consents (MACs). Development is subject to a single comprehensive environmental assessment by the planning authority.
When do I need it?
A MAC is the right to occupy a part of the maritime area, conditional on securing other necessary approvals. It is the gateway into the planning system. MACs are required before making a planning application to An Bord Pleanála and the coastal local authorities.
A MAC may be granted following assessment of the applicant and the proposed project. Only MAC holders can apply for development permission in the maritime area.
MARA invites potential applicants to partake in pre-application meetings before making a formal application. This minimises delays and ensure that all relevant information is submitted.
The duration of MACs vary depending on the lifecycle of the project. The lifecycle is based on the development, construction, operational and decommissioning phases.
How to apply
For pre-application meetings, please use the Pre-Application Consultation Request Form.
Other application forms and guidance forms for these consents are available from MARA's website.
According to Section 81(2) of the Act MARA shall, to the extent that is practicable to do so, determine a MAC application not later than 90 days after the day on which MARA is satisfied that the applicant has complied with all the requirements under this section.
Fees
The application fee is determined by the proposed size and cost of the project and the level of complexity involved in assessing an application. Application fee structures will be published in due course.
What if my application is rejected?
When the application assessment is compled, MARA may be minded to part grant, grant with conditions, or refuse to grant a MAC. In these cases, MARA will notify the applicant. They will set out how MARA is minded to determine the application and the reasons why.
The applicant may provide supplementary material for further consideration. This is within a specified time frame.