The official definition of the R817 from the Roads Act, 1993 (Classification of Regional Roads) Order, 2012[2] states:
R817: Harold's Cross - Ballyboden, County Dublin
Between its junction with R137 at Harolds Cross Road in the city of Dublin and its junction with R115 at Ballyboden Road in the county of South Dublin via Harolds Cross Road, Kimmage Road Lower and Fortfield Road in the city of Dublin: Wainsfort Road, Cypress Grove Road, Old Bridge Road and Ballyroan Road in the county of South Dublin.