Building permit.
Your guide to obtaining a fast and seamless building permit.
Have you been dreaming of a new home or planning an extension, but the process of applying for a building permit feels complicated and time-consuming? You’re not alone.
A building permit is one of the first and most important steps in any construction project – whether it’s a private house, renovation of an apartment building, or a new development.
We help you navigate this process quickly, professionally, and without unnecessary effort.
What is a building permit and when do you need it?
A building permit is an official document issued by the local municipality and the Rescue Board, granting the right to start construction work or demolish an existing building.
It is mandatory in all cases specified in Annex 1 of the Estonian Building Code.
It is required, for example:
1. When constructing a new building (private house, apartment building, commercial building).
2. For major reconstruction work.
3. When altering or extending a building.
4. When demolishing a building.
If your planned activity falls under these categories and is listed in Annex 1 of the Building Code, applying for a building permit is mandatory – and this is exactly where we can help.
How we help you – our building permit service.
Applying for a building permit can be a complex process involving multiple stages and numerous documents. We take full responsibility for this process so you can focus on what matters most.
Our service includes:
Professional consultation
We begin with an initial consultation to assess your needs, determine whether a building permit is required, and recommend the best solutions.
Document preparation
We gather and prepare all required documentation according to legal requirements. Correct formatting for the Building Register, proper file names, structure – we know exactly how to do it right. We design simple construction projects ourselves and involve partners for more complex ones.
Communication with authorities
We communicate with the municipality and the Rescue Board on your behalf, submit the application, and monitor the progress of the process.
Resolving remarks
If the municipality or Rescue Board issues remarks or additional requirements, we resolve them quickly and professionally.
Issuance of the building permit
We oversee the entire process and ensure that the building permit is issued on time. Our goal is to make the building permit application as simple and stress-free as possible.
What documents are needed for a building permit application?
A building permit application requires comprehensive documentation.
The exact list depends on the complexity and location of the project, but typically includes:
Main documents:
Architectural preliminary project (building area, plot plan, elevations, sections, floor plans).
Technical descriptions of the building.
Site location map.
Additional documents, if required:
Utility connection conditions (water-sewer, electricity, heating, gas).
Geodetic base plan.
Dendrological report.
Environmental requirements (for protected areas).
Special design parts (electrical systems, water-sewer, ventilation, heating, cooling).
The Building Code provides the full list, but don’t worry – we know exactly what your project needs and prepare everything for you.
Municipalities may also require extra documents depending on the project’s location and type.
For example, historical city centres or protected areas may require heritage protection conditions or more detailed architectural descriptions.
Price of a building permit and initial consultation.
The cost of preparing a simple building permit preliminary project starts from €1500, which includes the initial consultation and all necessary application procedures. The final price depends on the complexity of the project.
The price includes:
Initial consultation and needs assessment
Preparation of the preliminary project
Communication with the municipality and Rescue Board
Preparation of additional documents
State fee for residential buildings and their auxiliary structures
Submission of the application
Resolution of remarks
Issuance of the building permit
Investing in a professional service ensures that your building permit is obtained on time and without delays – saving you significant time, money, and stress.
Common mistakes in building permit applications – and how we help avoid them.
Building permit applications often encounter pitfalls that cause delays or rejections. Our experience helps you avoid these typical errors:
Formatting mistakes in the Building register
Incorrect file formats, wrong file names, or chaotic project structure can result in your application being returned.
Technical errors
Incorrect building data, such as wrong area calculations or mistakes in plot boundaries.
Incorrect application type
Building permit and building notice forms differ – submitting the wrong form results in rejection.
Missing documents
Lack of utility connection conditions or a geodetic base plan may stop the process.
Ignoring environmental requirements
If the plot is in a protected area or shoreline protection zone, missing environmental documents can block the application.
Drawings not meeting project formatting requirements
We check everything thoroughly before submission to avoid delays.
For example, one client’s application would have been rejected because the PDF files uploaded to the Building Register did not meet naming standards. Because of our experience, we caught and corrected the error early – saving the client a 2–3 week delay.
Frequently asked questions about building permit applications.
How long does it take to obtain a building permit?
The minimum processing time is 30 days, but the exact duration depends on project complexity and municipal workload.
Our efficient workflow and experience help minimise delays – we know exactly what the authorities expect.
How long does it take to prepare a building permit project?
For preparing a simpler preliminary project, it typically takes 30 to 60 days. This depends on the complexity and size of the project and how quickly we receive the necessary input data (geodetic base plan, connection conditions).
For more complex projects (apartment buildings, multi-storey buildings, projects located in protected areas), the design process may take 2–4 months.
Do all construction works require a building permit?
No. Not all construction work requires a building permit.
Building Code Annex 1
specifies exactly which structures require a building permit and which can be built based on a building notice or without any notice at all.
For example, smaller auxiliary buildings (under 60 m²), garden houses, sheds, and certain types of greenhouses may not require a building permit. If you are unsure, consult with us – we will help determine whether your project requires a permit or if a notice is sufficient.
Can the owner prepare the building permit project themselves?
Yes, the owner may prepare construction projects themselves if they meet the required qualification standards and have the necessary training. In practice, this means architectural or construction-related education and knowledge of laws and regulations.
If you do not have these qualifications, you must involve a certified designer. We offer systematic solutions – from concept to completed design.
Are additional specialized projects required besides the architectural preliminary project?
Yes, the municipality or the Rescue Board may request additional specialized design projects depending on the type and size of the building:
- Water and sewer connection project
- Electrical (strong current) project
- Internal water and sewer system project
- Ventilation project
- Heating system project
- Road and pavement design project
- Wastewater and stormwater drainage project
We help determine which design parts are necessary for your building and arrange their preparation.
What must a building permit project include?
The content and
formatting requirements
of the building project are defined by a regulation of the Government of the Republic. In short, the project must include:
- Explanatory note (technical description)
- Architectural drawings (plans, sections, elevations)
- Site plan
- Technical description of the building
- Building data (areas, volumes, materials)
We prepare projects that meet all requirements.
What are the formatting requirements for building permit projects?
Formatting requirements
are also specified in the Government Regulation. The most important requirements are:
- Projects must be in PDF format
- File names must follow the required standard
- Drawings must be readable and to scale
- All pages must be numbered and signed
We ensure that all formatting requirements are met.
Can the municipality require a project expert review?
Yes, the municipality may require an expert review if:
- The building project is complex or has potential hazards
- The building project is not prepared by a qualified professional
- There are doubts about the project’s compliance with requirements
A building project expert review is an additional service.
Can construction begin based on a preliminary project?
No, construction may not be carried out based on a preliminary project. A building permit is issued based on the preliminary project, but construction must be performed according to the main or working project.
The main project or working project includes more detailed technical solutions and is necessary for high-quality construction.
Do you assist with main or working project preparation?
Yes, we offer systematic solutions from concept to completion. We prepare preliminary projects, main projects, and working projects – all from one place, delivered professionally and on time.
If you need
site supervision, we can provide that service as well, ensuring construction according to the project and proper quality control.
How much does a simple preliminary project cost?
The cost of a simple preliminary project starts from 1500 euros, which includes the initial consultation and all procedures related to the application.
For more complex buildings or structures (such as apartment buildings, multi-storey buildings, or buildings with complex technical solutions), the cost of the preliminary project may reach tens of thousands of euros.
To receive an exact price offer, contact us – we will assess your project and provide a quotation.
Start your construction project the right way – contact us.
A building permit is the first essential step in your construction project. A professional approach ensures a fast, smooth process, allowing you to focus on what matters – building your dream home or a successful development.
With experience dating back to 2001, we offer the confidence that your building permit is obtained correctly and on time.
We have helped numerous clients – private houses, apartment buildings, development projects, and housing associations – successfully obtain building permits.
Don’t leave your project uncertain.
Contact us today for a free consultation!
We will discuss your project and provide professional guidance on how to proceed.
Next step: Once your building permit is approved, you can begin construction. To ensure quality and compliance, we recommend involving site supervision, which monitors construction accuracy and documents the process. After construction is complete, you will need a occupancy permit, confirming the building is ready and safe to use.
