Dublin has four local authorities, which provide a host of services that make the city a great place to live. Each authority provides the same essential services. They just serve different areas of the city.
We’re going to take a look at some of the essential municipal services these four authorities provide throughout the city. So if you’ve ever wondered what local authorities in Dublin do, keep reading. Alternatively, you can find out more about each one by visiting their individual websites:
Dublin City Council
Tel: 01 222 2222
Email: [email protected]
Fingal County Council
Tel: 01 890 5000
Email: [email protected]
South Dublin County Council
Tel: 01 414 9000
Email: [email protected]
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council
Tel: 01 205 4700
Email: [email protected]
Business services
Each local authority’s business support unit allows residents to avail of a range of business-related services, advice and information.
They deal with planning permission, rates, building regulation enforcement, guidance on commercial rates, tenders, casual trading, advertising, growing your business, payments, permits, licensing and more.
You can find out more about the services available from each local authority here:
Housing and community services
The role of local authorities in relation to housing and community services is huge. They’re responsible for ensuring that Dublin’s residents have appropriate accommodation in safe and integrated communities.
They do this by supplying social housing, advising tenants and landlords and supporting those who require housing welfare and social work services.
Culture and amenities
Dublin City Council’s Culture and Amenities Services support the city’s public libraries, park, sports facilities and arts amenities.
They are involved in a number of projects, including the City Cultural Quarter, the restoration of Richmond Barracks and the Temple Bar Project. They also coordinate the city’s calendar of events – many of which are highlighted on our ‘What’s on’ page.
Similarly, Dublin’s other three authorities provide a range of services in the city’s suburbs. These encompass libraries, parks, beaches, public spaces, sports and the arts scene. Artist residencies and festivals often fall under their remit too.
Emergency services
Dublin City Council oversees the work of Dublin’s Fire Rescue and Ambulance Services. The city is home to the largest full-time fire brigade in Ireland. They provide emergency services to the entire city and county of Dublin.
If you’re not familiar with them yet, learn about Ireland’s essential emergency numbers here.
Environmental services
Dublin’s Environmental Services safeguards cleanliness and biodiversity throughout the city. They manage rubbish collection contractors, water treatment and natural spaces. They can even help you clear garbage from your property and upgrade your plumbing.
You should get in touch with the environmental branch of your local council if you have any queries relating to waste, recycling, burial grounds, conservation, biodiversity or animal control.
If you’ve just arrived in the city, you can also check out our comprehensive guide to waste disposal in Dublin.
Roads and transport services
The City Council collects motor taxes, organises parking, establishes cycle lanes and conducts road work through its Roads and Transport Services. Its online portal allows you to quickly and conveniently tax your vehicle.
The three county councils provide information on areas such as traffic, parking, roadworks, road closures, public transport, road bye-laws, road safety, winter weather updates, public lighting, traffic lights and more.
For an introduction to the city’s transport infrastructure, read our guide on getting around Dublin.
Planning services
The City Council’s planning arm is responsible for ensuring that the city remains sustainable and liveable as it continues to grow and expand.
The current Dublin City Development Plan outlines the Council’s vision for the city’s future. And the Planning Services department is entrusted with delivering it. If you live in or own property in Dublin, you can see how it fits in with the Council’s plans using its website MyPlan.ie.
Through their planning units, each local authority deals with planning applications, council properties, vacant sites, planning permission, local heritage and more.
