Ministry's move to ease building permits sparks questions

The recent Ministry of Interior announcement, abolishing planning permission requirements for small developments, has left many with questions about the upcoming changes, especially those planning to build in the coming months.

"K" reached out to both the Ministry of Interior and ETEK to uncover the specifics of the impending alterations in the construction process. Current information indicates that a relevant bill is in preparation for parliamentary discussion. Simultaneously, ETEK is crafting a guidance manual outlining the conditions for a Pancyprian planning permit. A register of building controllers will also be established to oversee projects and ensure compliance with specified provisions.

The change aims to simplify the permit approval process for low-risk buildings, reduce waiting times, and emphasize on-the-spot control, aiming to elevate overall oversight.

In terms of the urban permit application process, those interested in constructing small buildings will follow a familiar path. They'll engage an architect, submit an application electronically through the Hippodamos system to the urban planning authority—now the provincial government committee post-local government reform. Notably, after 20 days from application submission, applicants can proceed with remaining procedures for construction, even without a planning authority response. The subsequent building permit application follows the same procedure.

Concerning oversight during construction, ETEK underscores the vital role of the building controller, who will conduct three on-the-spot checks in different project phases. Notably, the audit of each phase involves a random selection from the auditor's register, excluding those related to the project's owner, architect, or civil engineer. Further details are expected in the coming months.

Building contractors, like Stelios Gabriel, President of the Federation of Building Contractors, express optimism about this change. Gabriel notes that with proper control measures and effective procedures, this positive shift theoretically allows for reduced licensing time for larger developments. Stay tuned for more details as this story unfolds.

[This article was translated from its Greek original]