Building Permit

A building permit is required for all construction projects. Building permits are issued in Compostela by the office of development. They will require proof that you own the property. A current tax bill (preferably with your name on it but not necessarily), your passport and your fideicomiso are needed. They will send you out for copies. I was able to convince them that they really did not want a copy of all of my fideicomiso. They were satisfied with the first few pages and the signature page.

You will also need a floor plan of the property which shows the square meters under roof (i.e. all covered patios are included). They will not understand you if your plan is in feet and inches. I have drawn several of my own but I am told that an “architect” will do the plan for 2,000 pesos. Be sure to clearly indicate the old construction if it is a renovation.

The cost is about 59 pesos (2007) per square meter under roof depending on your zone. If they tell you it will be twice that tell them you are not in the hotel zone and say you will need to check some other details. When I hesitated they quickly halved the price.

They will fill out and accept your application (solicitud) and give you a copy of it that is your proof of delivery. They will put a date on it that says when you can return to pick up both your building permit (licencia para construir) and your land use permit ( permiso para uso de suelo). You should give a copy to your builder so he can show these to any inspector who arrives at your job site. Before you go to pick up your permits it is a good idea to call because it may not be ready on the day they said. ( Esmirala at 277- 0738 (2007)). You will be asked to go to the main municipal office beside the church to pay the fee and bring back a couple of copies of the proof of payment they will give you there.

I believe that all or part of the process can now be transacted in the county office in La Penita. I have not tried this but it is worthwhile checking into.

The office of development is located close to the square in Compostella. With your back to the church walk one block away from the church. Turn left at the first corner and the office is at the end of that block on the far side of the street. Address

Your permit is good for one year. If you do not complete you will need to renew. Update your drawing to indicate the part that is not yet complete or you will be charged for the part that you have completed.

I have heard that some inspectors will offer to settle the permit issue if you pay them directly. Do not do so. This does not get you a permit so you are leaving yourself wide open for the same or another inspector to pull the same scam repeatedly. In my opinion you will deserve what you get if you play that kind of game.