Requirements for Building Plan Approval in Nigeria

The requirements for building plan approval in Nigeria may vary slightly depending on the state or local government authority where the construction will take place. However, there are generally some requirements that need to met.

Here is a general list of documents and information typically required for building plan approval in Nigeria:

1. Application form: You will obtain and complete an application form for building plan approval. This form is usually provided by the relevant local government authority or the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
2. Architectural drawings: You must submit detailed architectural drawings prepared by a registered architect. These drawings should include floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans. They should accurately represent the proposed building design and its compliance with relevant building codes and regulations.
3. Structural drawings: A structural engineer must prepare and provide detailed structural drawings for the proposed building. These drawings demonstrate the integrity and safety of the building’s structure.
4. Electrical and mechanical drawings: If the building includes electrical or mechanical systems, such as wiring, plumbing, or HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), you may need to provide detailed drawings prepared by a qualified engineer.
5. Title document: You will provide proof of ownership or authorization to build on the property. This can be in the form of a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or other relevant documents.
6. Land survey: A registered surveyor should survey the land and provide a survey plan. This plan shows the exact boundaries, dimensions, and location of the property.
7. Payment of fees: There are usually application fees and processing fees associated with building plan approval. The specific fees vary depending on the state or local government authority.

Here are some additional requirements that may be needed for building plan approval for a bigger project in Nigeria:

• Soil investigation report: A geotechnical engineer should conduct soil tests on the construction site and prepare a soil investigation report. This report helps assess the suitability of the soil for the proposed building and ensures that the foundation design is appropriate.
• Environmental impact assessment (EIA) report: For certain types of projects, an EIA report may be required. This report assesses the potential environmental impact of the construction and suggests mitigating measures.
• Approved road access plan: In some cases, you may need to provide an approved road access plan showing how the building will connect to existing roads and infrastructure.
• Fire safety plan: For larger buildings or buildings with specific fire safety requirements, you may need to submit a fire safety plan prepared by a fire safety consultant. This plan outlines measures to prevent and mitigate fire risks.
• Site analysis report: A site analysis report may be required, especially for large or complex projects. This report provides information about the site conditions, topography, drainage patterns, and any potential environmental constraints.
• Approval from regulatory agencies: Depending on the nature of the project, you may need to obtain approvals or clearances from relevant regulatory agencies. For example, if the building involves healthcare facilities, you may need approval from the Ministry of Health.
• Accessibility compliance: For public buildings, it is important to ensure compliance with accessibility standards for persons with disabilities. This may involve providing ramps, accessible entrances, and other necessary features.

It’s important to note that these requirements are general, and there may be additional requirements or specific variations depending on the location and nature of the construction project. It is recommended to contact the local government authority or State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development in the specific area where the construction will take place to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on the requirements for building plan approval.

We have compiled the building plan approval requirements for some states in Nigeria to make sure you do not encounter stress in your approval process. Below is a compilation of building plan approval requirements for Abuja (FCT), Lagos, Rivers, Anambra, and Enugu State.

Requirements for Building Plan Approval in Abuja

1. Make an application on prescribed application forms obtainable from the authority.
2. Attach photocopies of title documents; Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Right of occupancy (R of O), Titled Deed Plan (TDP), etc.
3. Prepared plans on standard A3 size in 3 copies, drawn to scale of not less than 1:500 site plan. Floor plans of 1:200 and 1:100 architectural drawings.
4. 3 copies of structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings.
5. Site analysis report.
6. Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA).
7. All plans are to be sealed by relevant professionals and submitted in both hard and soft copies.
8. All applications concerning petroleum filling stations, private hospitals, hotels, etc shall be accompanied by a letter of license from the authority regulating that activity.

Whenever approval is granted, construction should commence within 2 years, otherwise, the developer applies for validation.

The developer is to apply for setting out approval when the foundation is made and obtain the setting out approval before continuing with further development.

Crosscheck architectural drawings for the following Design Errors;

• Cross ventilation.
• Proper scaling.
• Rooms should not be less than 3m x 3.6m.
• Legibility of lines

Pre-vet documents with District Officer (DO)

Make payment at the bank with the revenue code and agency code.

Read and follow all advice given.

Confirm receipt at the accounts department/District Office.

Prepare for site reconnaissance by District Officer.

Submit all documents which include:

1. 5 sets of sealed architectural drawings. See attached link on the need for registered architects.
2. 5 sets of sealed structural drawings and calculation sheets.
3. 5 sets of mechanical and electrical drawings.
4. Letter of supervision from COREN registered Engineers.
5. Certificate of Occupancy.
6. Clearance letter from LUAC.
7. Confirmation/consent letter from lands,
8. Clearance letter from Housing, Fire, Transportation, and Drainage.
9. Confirmation letter from NTDA.
10. Evidence of payment of Ground Rent.
11. Soil test report.
12. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
13. Survey Plan (5 copies and 1 original).
14. Tenement rate receipt.
15. Passport photograph of the applicant.
16. Electronic tax clearance form with a copy of last tax payment receipts.
17. Development levy receipt.
18. Evidence of payment of assessment fees.
19. Site photographs.

The following are included if the applicant is a company

1. Two directors’ tax clearance.
2. Most recent company tax clearance.
3. Evidence of pay-as-you-go as a company

Requirements for Building Plan Approval in Port Harcourt

Submit four (4) sets of drawings (photocopies) to the secretariat for approval.

Keep one copy as a consultant’s copy.

Submit one copy to the client.

The following documents must be attached:

• Structural calculation sheet.
• Soil test report.
• CVs of consultant Electrical, Mechanical and Structural Engineers.
• Architect’s Practice License (photocopy) covers for Architect’s CV.
• Site analysis Report and Plan (SAR&P).
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This applies if the building is to be used for commercial purposes.
• Workmen compensation.
• Charting report of a building plan.
• Evidence of C of O (certificate of occupancy) from RIVGIS

It’s worth noting that the specific requirements can vary depending on the state or local government regulations, so it is essential to consult with the relevant authorities or engage a professional architect or consultant who is familiar with the local building plan approval processes.

Requirements for Building Plan Approval in Anambra State

The specific requirements for building plan approval in Anambra State, Nigeria, may be subject to change or updates. It is always recommended to consult with the relevant local government authority or the Anambra State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development for the most accurate and up-to-date information. However, here is a general outline of the requirements:

1. Completed application form: Obtain and complete the application form for building plan approval from the appropriate local government authority or the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
2. Architectural drawings: Prepare detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans. These drawings should be prepared by a registered architect, and should comply with relevant building codes and regulations.
3. Structural drawings: Provide detailed structural drawings prepared by a qualified structural engineer. These drawings demonstrate the structural integrity and safety of the proposed building.
4. Soil investigation report: Conduct a soil test on the construction site and submit a soil investigation report prepared by a geotechnical engineer. This report helps assess the soil conditions and ensures the foundation design is appropriate.
5. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) report: If required, obtain an EIA report from an approved environmental consultant. This report assesses the potential environmental impact of the construction project and suggests mitigating measures.
6. Title document: Provide proof of ownership or authorization to build on the property. This can include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), a Deed of Assignment, or other relevant documents.
7. Land survey: Engage a registered surveyor to conduct a land survey and provide a survey plan. The survey plan should accurately depict the boundaries, dimensions, and location of the property.
8. Approved road access plan: If necessary, submit an approved road access plan, which demonstrates how the building will connect to existing roads and infrastructure.
9. Fire safety plan: For larger buildings or those with specific fire safety requirements, provide a fire safety plan prepared by a fire safety consultant. This plan outlines measures to prevent and mitigate fire risks.
10. Payment of fees: Pay the required application fees and processing fees associated with building plan approval. The specific fees will be determined by the local government authority or the State Ministry.

It’s important to note that these requirements are general and may be subject to variation or additional requirements based on specific local regulations or project characteristics. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with the relevant authorities or engage a professional architect or consultant familiar with the building plan approval process in Anambra State.

Requirements for Building Plan Approval in Enugu State

The requirements for building plan approval in Enugu State, Nigeria, may be subject to change or updates. It is recommended to consult with the relevant local government authority or the Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the most accurate and up-to-date information. However, here is a general outline of the requirements:

1. Completed application form: Obtain and complete the application form for building plan approval from the appropriate local government authority or the Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.
2. Architectural drawings: Prepare detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans. These drawings should be prepared by a registered architect, and should comply with relevant building codes and regulations.
3. Structural drawings: Provide detailed structural drawings prepared by a qualified structural engineer. These drawings demonstrate the structural integrity and safety of the proposed building.
4. Soil investigation report: Conduct a soil test on the construction site and submit a soil investigation report prepared by a geotechnical engineer. This report helps assess the soil conditions and ensures the foundation design is appropriate.
5. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) report: If required, obtain an EIA report from an approved environmental consultant. This report assesses the potential environmental impact of the construction project and suggests mitigating measures.
6. Title document: Provide proof of ownership or authorization to build on the property. This can include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), a Deed of Assignment, or other relevant documents.
7. Land survey: Engage a registered surveyor to conduct a land survey and provide a survey plan. The survey plan should accurately depict the boundaries, dimensions, and location of the property.
8. Approved road access plan: If necessary, submit an approved road access plan, which demonstrates how the building will connect to existing roads and infrastructure.
9. Fire safety plan: For larger buildings or those with specific fire safety requirements, provide a fire safety plan prepared by a fire safety consultant. This plan outlines measures to prevent and mitigate fire risks.
10. Payment of fees: Pay the required application fees and processing fees associated with building plan approval. The specific fees will be determined by the local government authority or the Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.

Please note that these requirements are general and may be subject to variation or additional requirements based on specific local regulations or project characteristics. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with the relevant authorities or engage a professional architect or consultant familiar with the building plan approval process in Enugu State

Why Your Building Plan Approval Take Long to Be Approved

The following are the reasons why your building plan approval may take longer to be approved;

1. Having charting land: Charting is a situation whereby a surveyor from the planning office is assigned to check the status of the land, i.e. ascertain the type of Land-use (e.g. commercial, residence, or farming). Also to know if the land is under government acquisition.
2. Inappropriate screening of your drawings before submittion: You should submit your drawing for pre-screening before submission. When your architectural drawings, structural, electrical, or mechanical drawings are not up to standart, they could be kept aside or call you to pick up your drawings. After all the necessary corrections you will have to submit it again. Once the drawings pass the requirements, the approval will not go beyond four (4) to six(6) weeks.
3. Documents issue: when you don’t have correct documents like C of O, tax clearance certificate.
4. Not following up: you will have to follow up with the person in charge from time to time. That is to say, there is a need to collect some contact details. You need to have at least one person that will give you information about the approval process.

Other FAQs

Why do I have to submit building plans for approval?

The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act in Nigeria stipulates that no person may erect, alter, add to, or convert any building without the prior approval of the Local Authority.

How do I go about submitting building plans for approval?

You or your engineers/architect/draftsperson must prepare the required sets of drawings/building plans for submission to the relevant authority. All the drawings must be duly signed by a registered professional in their different field (structural engineer, architect, mechanical engineer and electrical engineer) in order to pass the building plan approval. Sometimes, if it is a big project, an engineer registered with the Council of Registered Engineers in Nigeria must sign an undertaking form (obtainable from both COREN and the local building body) taking responsibility for the structural engineering work.

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