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Apply for a building permit

Permit for new construction, additions, or major structural alterations issued by the local building authority.

Processing: approx. 3 months
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 82.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Have building plans prepared

    The building permit application must be submitted by an architect or engineer authorized to file building permit applications.

  2. 2

    Submit an application to the building department

    Including site plan, construction drawings, building specifications, and structural analysis.

  3. 3

    Review and Participation

    The building department reviews building plans and building codes, and consults with neighbors and relevant authorities as necessary.

  4. 4

    Obtained a building permit

    Once the permit has been issued, construction may begin (please note the notice of commencement of construction).

Required documents

  • Site MapMandatory
  • Construction drawingsMandatory
  • Building SpecificationsMandatory
  • Stability analysisOften forgotten

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 3 months

Official: max. approx. 3 months

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • • Site plan/property cadastre is not up to date
  • • Proof of stability is missing
  • • Neighborhood consent was not obtained

Common reasons for rejection

  • • The project conflicts with the zoning plan
  • • Construction documents are incomplete or cannot be verified
  • • Social distancing guidelines not followed

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Developers of projects requiring a permit (depending on state building codes and the type of project).

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 months

Success rate

approx. 82.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Site plan/property cadastre is not up to date
  • •Proof of stability is missing
  • •Neighborhood consent was not obtained

Common reasons for rejection

  • •The project conflicts with the zoning plan
  • •Construction documents are incomplete or cannot be verified
  • •Social distancing guidelines not followed

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Related services

Preliminary Building Permit Application

Preliminary determination of approval eligibility without complete construction documents

Questions & Answers

How long does it take to get a building permit?▼

Statutory deadlines range from 1 to 3 months depending on the state; in practice, 2 to 6 months is a more realistic timeframe.

Read more