https://www.gov.ie/en/service/161a7-environmental-impact-assessment-screening-service/
An Environment Impact Assessment is needed before farmers do certain types of development on their land. Screening is the cost-free process in which the Department examines the proposed activities for environmental impact to determine if they can go ahead without the need for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Where the activities are likely to have a significant effect on the environment a full EIA will be required.

When to seek screening
You can apply for screening if:
- the proposed activity exceeds the thresholds outlined above
- the proposed activity is within, is near, or may affect a proposed Natural Heritage Area or nature reserve
- the proposed activity may have a significant effect on the environment
- the proposed activity may impact on an archaeological monument – the National Monuments Service may direct you to apply for screening in the case of sub-threshold works that have been brought to their attention
- the proposed activity is identified as ‘requiring consent’ or is a ‘notifiable action’ in a European site such as Special Area of Conservation, Special Protected Area or an Natural Heritage Area
In such circumstances in a European site, the National Parks and Wildlife Service may direct you to apply to the Department for screening in the case of sub-threshold works that have been brought to their attention (via notifiable actions system or otherwise).