What can you build without applying?

Some smaller buildings can be put up without a building application, but only if every condition is met. Here are the most common cases, and what to watch out for.

Garage, shed or outbuilding up to 50 m²

A detached garage, shed or outbuilding can be built without an application when its usable and built-up area is at most 50 m². It can have one storey without a basement, a ridge height of at most 4 metres and an eaves height of at most 3 metres.

It must stand at least 1 metre from the boundary and at least 1 metre from other buildings on the property. It cannot be used for living, so an annex with a bedroom needs an application.

Small extensions up to 15 m²

An extension of at most 15 m² can be built without an application if it stands at least 4 metres from the boundary and contains no rooms for permanent use, such as a living room or bedroom.

What you always need to check

The zoning plan applies even when a building is exempt from applying. It may, for example, limit how much of the plot can be built on, or how close to the road you can build. In the 100-metre zone along the sea the rules are stricter.

When the building is finished, you must notify the municipality so that it is registered on the map. If you build wrongly, the municipality can require changes or removal, so it pays to check first.

The rules here are simplified. The zoning plan for your property always applies, and the municipality may have its own requirements. If you are unsure, we help you find out.

Guides: Permits for extensions · From sketch to permit