What are building permits?
Building permits are administrative authorizations that must be obtained from the relevant city council in order to legally carry out construction or renovation work.
These permits ensure that the work complies with current urban planning, safety, accessibility, and habitability regulations. Without this authorization, any work performed on commercial premises could be considered illegal and subject to penalties.
When are they required?
Building permits are required when the work may affect the safety, structure, or exterior appearance of the building, or compliance with zoning regulations; they are also typically required for major renovations, additions, or demolitions.
Types of building permits
There are different types of building permits, depending on the size, location, or purpose of the project. Below, we explain the basic types: major building permits and minor building permits.
Major construction permit
- Construction of new buildings or premises.
- Building expansions.
- Comprehensive renovations of commercial premises.
- Structural modifications (such as the removal of load-bearing walls).
- Work that alters facades, roofs, or common areas.
Minor construction permit
A minor construction permit is required for simple renovations that do not affect the structure or safety of the building.
It is typically required for projects such as:
- Painting of homes or commercial spaces.
- Replacement of flooring, tiles, or wall coverings.
- Renovating bathrooms or kitchens without structural changes
- Replacement of doors or windows
- Plumbing or electrical repairs.
Prior notice of construction work
Prior notification is an administrative procedure used to inform the city council of the intention to carry out minor construction work that, in many cases, does not require a full permit.
In many municipalities, this procedure replaces the formal permit for simple projects that have no significant structural or urban planning impact. It allows construction to begin after submitting the required documentation, provided that the requirements established by municipal regulations are met.
Building permit requirements
To obtain a building permit, you must submit an application to the city council along with the necessary documentation to verify that the construction project complies with urban planning and safety regulations.
Required documentation
It typically includes the official application from the city council, the owner’s information, and details identifying the property where the work will be carried out.
Depending on the type of construction, a technical proposal may also be required, including plans, a descriptive report, and a budget prepared by a qualified professional.
Proof of payment of municipal fees and taxes is usually submitted, along with other documents related to construction safety and waste management. In some cases, additional permits may be required, especially if the building is located in protected areas or affects common elements.
Municipal deadlines and fees
Processing times depend on the city council and the type of construction project.
Permits for minor construction projects are typically processed within a few days or weeks, while permits for major construction projects can take several months due to technical and urban planning reviews.
It is also necessary to pay municipal fees and taxes associated with the project.
How to apply for building permits
To apply for building permits, you must submit an application to the relevant city council along with the documentation required for the type of project.
This typically includes the owner’s information, a description of the work, a budget, and—for major projects—a technical plan prepared by a qualified professional.
After submitting the documentation and paying the applicable municipal fees and taxes, the city council reviews the project to ensure it complies with urban planning and safety regulations. If everything is in order, it grants the permit or authorizes the prior notification, allowing the work to begin legally.
Steps to take at city hall
- Submit the application and the required documentation.
- Pay municipal fees and taxes.
- Wait for the city council’s technical and zoning review.
- Obtain the license or authorization.
- Begin construction within the established timeframe.
Common mistakes to avoid
When it comes to building permits, some common mistakes include starting construction without the required permits, or submitting documentation that is incomplete or contains incorrect information, as this can delay the processing of the application.
Other common mistakes include performing work that differs from or exceeds what was authorized under the permit, which could result in penalties from the city government.
If you’d like to learn more about this topic, we recommend our previous post on the phases of a commercial architecture project, where we explain the entire process from the initial analysis to the handover of the finished space.
If you’re considering a renovation or commercial architecture project, we offer a servicio 360º service that supports you from permit processing through to the final handover of the project.
