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Building Permit

In the Philippines, a Building Permit is an official approval issued by the local government (usually through the Office of the Building Official, or OBO) that allows a person or company to construct, renovate, repair, or demolish a structure legally.

It ensures that the proposed construction complies with the National Building Code of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 1096) and other local zoning, environmental, and safety regulations. Essentially, it's a safeguard to make sure buildings are safe, sustainable, and fit for occupancy.

Key Points about a Building Permit:

  • Who needs it? Anyone planning to construct a new building, renovate, expand, repair, convert, move, or demolish an existing one.

  • Requirements: Typically include signed architectural plans, structural designs, location and lot plans, various clearances (like barangay clearance, fire safety, environmental compliance if needed), and proof of land ownership.

  • Why is it important?

    • Ensures the safety of occupants and the public.

    • Protects property values.

    • Avoids legal penalties, fines, or even demolition of the unpermitted structure.

  • Validity: Normally, a building permit must be acted upon (construction must start) within 1 year and completed within a set period depending on the scale of the project.

Basic Steps to Obtain a Building Permit:

  1. Prepare necessary documents and clearances.

  2. Submit plans and documents to the Office of the Building Official (OBO).

  3. Pay the assessed fees.

  4. Undergo evaluation and inspections.

  5. Wait for the permit approval.

Building Permit Requirements

To apply for a building permit, you'll need to prepare the following documents:

1. Legal Documents

  • Certified True Copy of Title (TCT/OCT): Indicates ownership of the land.

  • Tax Declaration and Latest Tax Receipt: Proof of property tax payments.

  • Barangay Clearance: Endorsement from the local barangay.

  • Locational Clearance: Ensures the project complies with zoning regulations.

  • Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC): Required for projects with significant environmental impact. ​

2. Technical Documents

  • Architectural Plans: Signed and sealed by a licensed architect.

  • Structural Plans and Analysis: Signed and sealed by a licensed civil/structural engineer.

  • Sanitary/Plumbing Plans: Signed and sealed by a licensed sanitary engineer or master plumber.

  • Electrical Plans: Signed and sealed by a licensed electrical engineer.

  • Mechanical Plans: If applicable, signed and sealed by a licensed mechanical engineer.

  • Bill of Materials and Cost Estimates: Detailed list of materials and costs.

  • Specifications: Detailed description of materials and workmanship.

  • Geodetic Engineer’s Certification: Certifies that the construction will not encroach on adjoining properties.

3. Additional Clearances (if applicable)

  • Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance: From the Bureau of Fire Protection.

  • Homeowners Association Clearance: If the property is within a subdivision.

  • DPWH Clearance: If the project is along a national road.

  • DOLE Clearance: For compliance with occupational safety and health standards.

Estimated Building Permit Fees

The cost of obtaining a building permit varies based on the size and complexity of the project:

1. Building Permit Fee

  • Small Residential Projects (<100 sqm): ₱5,000 – ₱10,000

  • Medium Residential Projects (100–200 sqm): ₱10,000 – ₱20,000

  • Large Residential/Commercial Projects (>200 sqm): ₱20,000 – ₱50,000 or more

2. Ancillary Permit Fees

  • Electrical Permit: ₱500 – ₱1,500

  • Sanitary/Plumbing Permit: ₱1,000 – ₱3,000

  • Mechanical Permit: ₱1,000 – ₱3,000

  • Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance: ₱1,000 – ₱5,000

3. Other Fees

  • Zoning Clearance: ₱1,000 – ₱3,000

  • Barangay Clearance: ₱500 – ₱1,500

  • Occupancy Permit: ₱2,000 – ₱5,000

Note: These fees are estimates and can vary based on the local government's rates and the specifics of your project.

📌 Steps to Obtain a Building Permit

  1. Prepare All Required Documents: Gather legal, technical, and clearance documents.

  2. Submit Application: File your application at the Office of the Building Official (OBO) in your local city or municipality.

  3. Assessment and Payment: The OBO will assess your application and provide a computation of fees. Pay the necessary fees.

  4. Review and Evaluation: Your application and plans will be reviewed for compliance with building codes and regulations.

  5. Issuance of Permit: Once approved, the building permit will be issued, allowing you to commence construction.

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