Who applies for the permit, me or the builder?

The owner is legally responsible, but the owner or a licensed technician handles paperwork; we only carry out the works.

Can I start while the licence is being processed?

Only with declaración responsable. For licencia menor/mayor you must wait for express grant or positive silence depending on municipality.

You inherit the liability. Always ask for the town hall certificate before buying.

5 min read · 2026-05-14

When a declaration is enough and when you need a licence. Timelines and costs.

Declaración responsable: painting, flooring change, sanitary replacement without moving drains, furniture. Immediate process, council fee €30-80.

Licencia de obra menor: non-structural layout change, new services, terraces. 2-6 weeks processing, €200-600 + ICIO 2-4% of project cost.

Licencia de obra mayor: structural changes, extensions, change of use. Architect project required, 3-6 months, €1,500-5,000 + ICIO.

Changes to common areas (façade, external terraces, main stacks) require community authorisation. Without it you may be forced to undo the work.

The town hall can stop works and fine between 75% and 150% of the renovation cost. Selling without legalised licence exposes you to buyer claims.