Building Permit

A building permit (bygglov) is an authorization from the municipality required to construct a new building, extend a building, substantially change the use of a building, fit out a new dwelling, alter a facade, or install certain types of storage facilities and signs. Building permits are also required to establish amusement parks, sports facilities, camping sites, parking lots, and similar outdoor facilities.

The municipality assesses whether the project is compatible with detailed development plans, whether it is suitable with regard to landscape and cityscape, and whether it poses danger or significant inconvenience to neighbors. Building permits are issued by the municipal building committee.

Requirements

  • Control plan: For projects requiring building permits, a control plan (kontrollplan) must be prepared.
  • Independent controller: In many cases, an independent controller (kontrollansvarig) is required who must have an independent position in relation to the builder. The controller assists in preparing the control plan.
  • Aesthetic requirements: The building must have an aesthetically pleasing form and color. Modifications to existing buildings must be done carefully and with consideration to the building's character.
  • Detailed development plan: The project is assessed against the detailed development plan (detaljplan) if one exists, as well as suitability with regard to landscape, cityscape, and neighboring residents.

Permit Procedure

  • Preliminary assessment: Before applying for a building permit, you can apply for a preliminary assessment (förhandsbesked) from the municipality to determine whether what you plan to build is possible at the intended location.
  • Technical consultation: In certain cases, the municipal building committee holds a technical consultation (tekniskt samråd) where they review the work planning, proposed control plan, and other documents.
  • Start notice: If the building permit application is approved, you must receive a start notice (startbesked) from the municipality before you may begin construction. Starting construction before receiving a start notice results in a construction sanction fee (byggsanktionsavgift).
  • Fee: The municipality charges a fee for applications for building permits or preliminary assessments.