What is a major building permit and how do I apply for one?

A major building permit is a construction licence that you need to apply for from the local council if you’re looking to carry out certain types of construction works. This type of permit, as the name implies, usually refers to large-scale construction works that are technically complex and costly. These works must also follow a series of safety laws in conformance with current laws. Below we will give you all the details about this building permit.

What is considered as major building works?

A major building permit will be easier to understand if we explain it. It is also very important to know how to distinguish it from a minor building permit. The following projects are considered to be major building works:

• Full renovation of a building.
• Changing the structure of a building.
• Increasing the height or volume.
• Any building works related to fire protection.
• Demolition or division of land into plots.
• Changes to the use of a property.
• Refurbishment of commercial premises.
• Any works to add a new floor.
• Any works that affect the common elements of a building.

When should I apply for a major building permit?

Whenever you are planning any of the aforementioned projects, the developer must contact the council for the town or city where the property is located. They can then apply for a major building permit, but they must do this before beginning the works because they will need to receive approval first. If the works need to be carried out within a community of residents, you must receive unanimous consent and a permit beforehand.

It is important that you only begin works once you have received approval from the council, meaning that you need to receive a major building permit first.

What you need to apply for a major building permit

Each council establishes its own requirements and procedures for major building permit applications. As a general rule, these are the most common things that are required:

• Application form.
• Identification for the person applying.
• Delegation document certifying the representation of a technician, if applicable.
• Corresponding proof of payment for fees.
• Technical Project approved by the College of Architects. Remember that you’ll need to submit the following in triplicate:
  • A digital map.
  • A site plan.
  • A plan before the works.
  • A budget for the units with current market prices.
  • A report describing and justifying the works. You will need to include the expected duration of the works and the planned start date from approval of the municipal licence.
  • An explanatory report with fire prevention plans attached.
  • The installations.
  • The specifications.
  • A waste management study.

Where do you apply for a major building permit?

You will need to go to the council in the town or city where the building will be constructed or where the property is located that you plan to renovate. Here we will tell you how and where the process must take place.

In most cases, you should apply for a major building permit at the town planning registry office at the town or city hall, but every council has its own procedures. Find out what these are before beginning the process!

How long will it take for the council to grant a major building permit?

The major building permit application process usually takes three months to a year, depending on the council’s workload. In theory, it should generally take three months to complete the process, but it may take longer than expected. That is why it is best to do it in advance, to avoid any unforeseen incidents when carrying out the works.

How much does a major building permit cost?

The price for a major building permit can vary from 2% to 6% of the total budget for the works being carried out, excluding VAT.

For example, if the budget for your works is 20,000 euros, the cost of the building permit will be between 400 and 1,200 euros. To this amount you will need to add the fee for the technical project development, which will be carried out by a licensed professional.

Can you carry out major works without a permit?

The answer to that is no. Carrying out renovation or refurbishments without applying for the corresponding permit from the council may lead to a penalty. Violating regulations or carrying out works without a permit will incur a fine of between 300 and 6,000 euros. If you want to carry out any kind of works on your home, it is important that you receive approval from the municipal authority.

Now you know all about major building permits, it’s essential that you have all the documentation you need to apply for this building permit. If you prefer to invest in new-build apartments, at AQ Acentor we offer high-quality developments that are adapted to your needs.