[IN FULL] Guidelines For Obtaining Building Approval In Lagos: Documents & Requirements

As Lagos Commissioner Urges Adherence to Building Regulations and Planning Licenses

In a bid to address the widespread disregard for physical planning regulations, Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development in Lagos, has advised property owners and developers to prioritize obtaining planning licenses before commencing construction.

He emphasizes the importance of adhering to the terms of these licenses in a concerted effort to create a more sustainable and compliant built environment.

The Commissioner’s statement reflects the commitment to enforcing regulations without exceptions, aiming to ensure that the law benefits the overall living conditions within the state.

He further highlights the key documents and requirements for those applying for building approval in Lagos. These documents include:

1. Five original copies of architectural drawings, bearing the endorsement of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON).
2. Five original copies of structural drawings, with accompanying signatures, seals, and supervision letters from a registered engineer under the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
3. A calculation sheet detailing the materials to be used, signed by a COREN registered engineer.
4. Evidence of payment of required assessment fees.
5. Five original copies of mechanical and electrical drawings (if applicable).
6. A certified true copy of title documents, such as certificates of occupancy, registered conveyances, governor’s consent, or letters of allocation.
7. A confirmation or clearance letter from the Lands Bureau, if title documents are in process with the Lands Bureau (if applicable).
8. Clearance from the Land Use Allocation Committee (LUAC) where applicable.
9. Fire safety clearance from the Lagos State Fire Service (if applicable).
10. Metroline corridor clearance from the Lagos State Ministry of Transport (if applicable).
11. Traffic impact assessment report from the Lagos State Ministry of Transport (if applicable).
12. Drainage clearance from the Office of Drainage Services, Lagos State Ministry of Environment (if applicable).
13. Confirmation letter from New Towns Development Authority (if applicable).
14. Soil test report (if applicable).
15. Environmental impact assessment report from the Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of Environment (if applicable).
16. A letter of structural stability/integrity, signed by a COREN registered engineer (for renovations of existing buildings).
17. Physical Planning Technical Report from the Physical Development Intervention Department of LASPPPA (if applicable).
18. Clearance from the Nigerian Air and Civil Aviation (if applicable).
19. Clearance from LASURA (if applicable).
20. An original sun-print survey plan.
21. Receipt of tenement rate or land use charge, or a sworn affidavit for payment if receipts are not available.
22. Two passport photographs of the applicant(s).
23. A copy of the current tax clearance certificate or evidence of updated personal income tax payment for the applicant(s), or the tax clearance certificate of two directors if the applicant is a company.
24. Proof of Pay As You Earn (P.A.Y.E) returns for companies.
25. A copy of the certificate of incorporation for companies.
26. Development levy receipt.
27. Site photographs to accompany the application.

By urging strict compliance with these regulations and requirements, Lagos aims to foster sustainable urban development and an environment that aligns with planning standards.