There’s nothing worse than starting construction and realizing that a document is missing or that a permit is not in order. Avoid delays and worries by ensuring everything is in place from the start. At Constructora Viñas, we explain how to manage licenses and permits clearly and without complications.
7 Essential Steps to Manage Licenses and Permits for Building Your Home
1. Know the Required Permits
Before starting any construction, it is essential to research which permits and licenses are required in your municipality. In Spain, the main authorizations for building a home are:
- Urban planning or building permit: Issued by the corresponding city council, it authorizes construction according to urban planning regulations.
- Activity and operation license: Required if the house includes an additional use, such as a vacation rental.
- Occupancy permit and habitability certificate: Certifies that the home is fit for habitation.
- Environmental authorizations: Necessary if the land is in protected areas or requires environmental impact studies.
2. Check the General Urban Planning Plan (PGOU)
Each municipality has its own PGOU, which determines the conditions under which construction is allowed. It is essential to check it to verify:
- If the land is buildable.
- The maximum height and surface area allowed.
- The regulations on setbacks and land occupation.
If your project does not comply with the current regulations, it is possible to request a specific modification of the plan, although this may extend approval times.
3. Prepare the Technical Project
One of the essential requirements for obtaining a building permit is to have a technical project prepared by a certified architect. This document must include:
- Descriptive report of the project.
- Plans and technical specifications.
- Health and safety study.
- Estimated budget.
4. Submit the Application and Pay the Fees
To formalize the application, you must submit all required documentation to the city council. Additionally, you will have to pay municipal fees, which are usually calculated based on the material execution budget (PEM) of the project. Depending on the location, the cost of a building permit typically ranges from 2% to 4% of the PEM.
5. Wait for Approval and Meet Deadlines
Once the application is submitted, the city council has a set period to issue its resolution. Generally, this process can take between one and three months, depending on the complexity of the project and administrative workload. It is crucial to respect deadlines and not start construction without an approved license, as you could face fines or even a work stoppage.
6. Manage Work Supervision and Completion Certificate
During construction, it is mandatory to have an architect as the site manager and a technical architect or building engineer, who will ensure that execution complies with the approved project. Upon completion, a final work certificate must be processed, which is necessary to obtain the first occupancy license.
7. Register Your Home
The final step is to register the house in the Property Registry and the Cadastre. To do this, you will need:
- Notarized deed signed before a notary.
- Habitability certificate.
- Proof of payment of the Construction, Installations, and Works Tax (ICIO).
We Make It Easy for You
If you want to avoid endless paperwork and ensure that your home meets all legal requirements, Constructora Viñas is here to help.
We have a team of experts in architecture, urban planning, and construction who will guide you step by step, ensuring that every procedure is handled efficiently and without surprises.
If you’re ready to build a custom home or a designer house, get in touch with us. We take care of making your project a reality with all guarantees and without unnecessary complications. Together, we will build a home designed just for you.
