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Planning application steps
Here's an overview of the main stages of applying for planning permission, as well as a practical guide to help you find all the information you need. |
In the vast majority of cases, the help of an architect is compulsory when building, renovating or demolishing a property. Therefore, it is the architect who will apply for planning permission from the competent authorities. You will just need to sign the documents and he or she will take care of the rest.
However, when the involvement of an architect is not required, you may need to prepare your own application. Here is an outline of the stages to follow.
Step 1: Contact your local authority
The first port of call is your local authority. They will be able to guide you through putting together your application and inform you of any specific planning and building regulations in your district.
You can also ask them for a planning report, an official document that presents the planning details of the plot or gives a brief opinion regarding the feasibility of a building project.
In Brussels, there are two types of planning information requests:
- A simple planning information request gives information of a general nature, such as the designated land use of the plot or whether permission has been granted to build a private dwelling.
- A planning report is more specific and asks the authorities to express their view regarding a potential project. The local planning office must then give its opinion as to the feasibility of the project and its compliance with the planning regulations in force.
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A planning report does not, under any circumstances, dispense with the need to apply for planning permission.
For more information about these documents, contact your local planning office or have a look at our section Town Planning in Brussels - Planning Reports.
Step 2: Complete the application form
Contact your local planning office for a planning application form:
Step 3: Submit the application to your planning office
There are two options for submitting your planning application:
- Deliver it to your local council office in person, making sure you are given a receipt.
- Send it by registered post.
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The local council must issue a response to your planning application within a certain timeframe (between 30 and 115 days from receipt of the complete application, depending on the complexity of the case).
Practical guide:
You will find the general information and documents that you need for your planning application on the following websites.
To contact your local planning department:
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