At Polaris Sauna we supply high-quality, pre-built outdoor saunas across Ireland with optional professional installation and screw foundations. This guide covers permission rules, groundworks, heater options, and maintenance so your project runs smoothly.
1) Planning Permission in Ireland
- Total outbuildings up to 25 m²: Garden structures like saunas are typically exempt from planning permission if the total built area of all outbuildings does not exceed 25 m².
- Free garden space rule (25 m²): After adding your sauna, you must still have at least 25 m² of unbuilt garden area. Example: if a 20 m² shed already exists, a sauna up to 5 m² would remain exempt.
- Height: commonly limited to around 3 m.
- Exceptions: protected areas, listed buildings, or very small plots may have stricter rules.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please confirm details with your local planning authority.
2) Foundations & Ground Preparation
A stable, level and well-drained base protects your sauna for the long term:
- Concrete slab: maximum stability for large/heavy models.
- Paving slabs or gravel bed: quick, cost-effective for compact models.
- Screw foundations (Polaris service): no concrete, immediately load-bearing, ideal on uneven ground. We install and laser-level the anchors on site.
3) Power Supply & Installation
- Electric heaters (Harvia, HUUM): require three-phase (400 V); installation by a certified electrician to IS 10101.
- Wood stoves: no mains power needed; ensure a safe flue and clearances to combustibles. A 230 V line for lighting/WiFi is still useful.
4) Wood vs. Electric Heaters – Pros & Cons
Wood Stoves
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Authentic fire & natural wood aroma | Requires firewood storage and handling |
| Independent of the electrical grid | Chimney/ash maintenance required |
| Great for rural/off-grid locations | Less precise temperature control |
Popular wood stoves at Polaris:
Harvia 20 Pro,
Harvia Linear 18 Compact
Electric Heaters
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenience: push-button or WiFi app control | Higher electricity costs |
| Fast, clean heat-up | Requires professional three-phase installation |
| No ash or wood storage | Dependent on grid power |
Popular electric heaters at Polaris:
Harvia Wall SW90E,
HUUM Mini 10.5 kW (WiFi),
HUUM Hive Flow Mini
5) Choosing the Location
- Privacy: screened areas or hedges; consider neighbours’ sightlines.
- View: orient panoramic glass toward your best garden/landscape view.
- Access: short, non-slip path from house to sauna (especially in winter).
- Clearances: allow ~50 cm on sides/rear for ventilation and maintenance.
- Space rule: remember the 25 m² free garden area must remain after building.
6) Delivery & Installation Options
- Delivery: free nationwide to curbside in Ireland (islands excluded).
- Installation: DIY kit (1–2 days with two people), Polaris professional install incl. screw foundations, or pre-assembled by crane for same-day use.
- Preparation: ensure truck access, unloading space and crane setup area if required.
7) Maintenance & Care
Routine Care
- After each use: open doors, ventilate, let all surfaces dry.
- Weekly: clean benches with mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals.
- Monthly: check seals, hinges, glazing; tighten fixings if needed.
- Every 6 months: inspect timber, check heater stones and re-stack loose stones.
- Annually: treat exterior wood (oil/stain), inspect roof and drainage.
Heater Care
- Wood stoves: remove ash regularly, clean chimney/flue, verify draft.
- Electric heaters: avoid overfilling stone baskets, replace cracked stones, have connections checked by a qualified electrician.
Irish climate tip: frequent rain and high humidity make ventilation essential. Don’t keep the cabin fully sealed for long periods after use.
8) Popular Models in Ireland
- Barrel Saunas: fast heat-up, iconic design – View Barrel Saunas
- Cube Saunas: modern lines, spacious feel – Discover Cube Saunas
- Igloo & Oval Saunas: cosy look, strong heat retention – Explore Igloo & Oval
Free Consultation & Quote
Ready to plan your outdoor sauna in Ireland? We’ll help you confirm permission requirements, choose the right foundation and select the ideal heater.
