Building Permit: Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Construction

A building permit is mandatory for all types of new constructions, major renovations, demolitions of buildings near neighboring properties, and changes in the intended use of spaces. Construction must comply with municipal spatial plans, which define land use regulations, permissible dimensions of buildings, distance from neighboring plots, and other conditions. It is also important to check whether the land is part of a protected area, such as cultural heritage sites, natural landmarks, or infrastructure corridors.

If you’re considering building a new home, an extension, a complete renovation of an existing building, or changing the purpose of a space, one of the first steps you need to take is obtaining a building permit. This official document provides you with the legal basis to start construction lawfully and safely.

If you plan to build closer to a neighboring building, i.e., less than one meter away, or if you are undertaking reconstruction that involves changes to the structure or functionality of the building, a building permit will be essential. The same applies if you intend to change the purpose of the building—for example, converting a garage into a living space or turning a residential property into commercial premises.

The Process of Obtaining a Building Permit

To obtain a building permit, you need to follow these steps:

Obtain basic information from the municipality, administrative unit, or other relevant authorities.
Check the land’s compliance with spatial plans. You can do this by reviewing the municipal spatial implementation act, through the spatial information system, or by submitting a request for location information.
Determine whether the construction area is protected under special regulations (e.g., nature reserves, water areas, cultural heritage, protected road zones, power lines, or gas pipelines, etc.).
Secure the right to build on the land—this can be ownership rights, building rights, or easement.
Prepare all necessary project documentation, which must be created by an authorized designer. It is essential that project management is handled by a licensed architect or engineer, depending on the type and complexity of the building.

When Is a Building Permit Not Required?

The law provides some exceptions where a building permit is not required. However, this does not mean you can build without restrictions. Simple structures, minor reconstructions, regular maintenance works, temporary structures, and works for public benefit can be carried out without a permit.

In certain cases where a building permit is not needed, it is still mandatory to notify the start of construction:

When removing complex or less complex structures, unless the building is less than one meter from a neighboring structure.
In urgent reconstructions due to natural or other disasters, where the building is restored to its original state without changing its position, dimensions, purpose, or appearance. Work must begin no later than three months after the disaster.
When setting up temporary storage facilities.

Reconstruction and Change of Building Use

Reconstruction involves interventions in the technical characteristics of an existing building, which change structural elements, capacity, or implement improvements. At least part of the existing structural elements must be preserved, and the height of the building generally remains unchanged or may be reduced. An increase is allowed only when aligning with regulations on essential building requirements.

Reconstruction also includes changes of use, which move the building into a higher category of complexity.

A change of use refers to a change in the purpose of the building or part of it, either independently or in connection with maintenance work, minor reconstructions, or extensions. If the change occurs within the same subclass according to the CC-SI classification or within the class of business and administrative buildings, it is not considered a change of use.