IrelandI want to buy agricultural land. Any restrictions?
Yes, there are restrictions on buying agricultural land in Ireland, primarily to protect farming viability and ensure land remains in active agricultural use.
What the Law Says
The Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 sets key restrictions on the transfer of agricultural land in Ireland, particularly where the land forms part of an active farm holding.
If you’re buying agricultural land that is part of a farm holding of 5 hectares or more, and the transfer would reduce the holding below 5 hectares, you may need prior consent from the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
This rule applies especially where the land is being sold separately from the main farm — for example, selling a field while keeping the rest of the farm. The aim is to prevent fragmentation that could undermine the economic viability of the remaining farm.
The law also restricts long-term leasing: any lease of agricultural land for 10 years or more requires the same Ministerial consent, to ensure land stays available for active farming.
Statutory TextNo conveyance of agricultural land which forms part of a farm holding shall be made without the consent of the Minister where the effect of the conveyance would be to reduce the area of the farm holding to less than 5 hectares.
— Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009, s. 51 — Restriction on conveyance of agricultural land
What to Do
Check if the land forms part of a farm holding of 5 hectares or more.
Confirm whether the sale would reduce the holding below 5 hectares.
Apply for Ministerial consent before completing the purchase if required.
Consult a solicitor experienced in agricultural property law in Ireland.
Verify planning and zoning status — some agricultural land has additional development restrictions.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.