Appropriate Assessment Screening
Stage I screening to determine if your development may significantly affect Natura 2000 sites. Required for the majority of planning applications across Ireland.
What is AA Screening?
Appropriate Assessment Screening (also called Stage I Screening or AA Screening) is required under Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive, transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. It determines whether your proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect on any Natura 2000 site (SAC or SPA).
What's Included in Our AA Screening Reports
Natura 2000 Site Identification
Identification of all SACs and SPAs within the zone of influence, with qualifying interests and conservation objectives examined.
Source-Pathway-Receptor Analysis
Systematic assessment of potential impact pathways — hydrological connectivity, airborne emissions, disturbance, habitat loss, and invasive species.
In-Combination Assessment
Review of other plans and projects that could combine with your development to affect Natura 2000 sites.
Clear Screening Conclusion
Definitive conclusion: can significant effects be excluded? If yes, no further assessment needed. If no, progression to NIS (Stage II).
Need an AA Screening Report?
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Get a Quote or call 089 499 1181When is AA Screening Required?
AA Screening is required for most planning applications in Ireland. The obligation arises from the Habitats Directive and cannot be set aside. Specifically, you will need AA Screening if:
Your site is near a Natura 2000 site — within approximately 15km, though the zone of influence varies
There is a hydrological connection — your site drains to a river or watercourse connected to an SAC or SPA
The council requests it — via Further Information or as a standard requirement
You are responding to an FI request — we regularly turn around FI responses within tight timeframes
AA Screening vs Natura Impact Statement
AA Screening (Stage I) and Natura Impact Statement (Stage II) are sequential steps in the Appropriate Assessment process. Screening determines whether significant effects can be ruled out. If they cannot — due to proximity, hydrological connectivity, or the nature of the development — a full NIS is required. We advise at quotation stage whether screening alone is likely to suffice or whether NIS will be needed.
Importantly, mitigation measures cannot be considered at screening stage. This was clarified by the European Court of Justice in People Over Wind (C-323/17). If your project relies on mitigation to avoid effects on Natura 2000 sites, it must proceed to NIS.
Get a Quote
Send your project details — we'll respond with a fixed-price quote, typically within 24 hours.
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089 499 1181