LEGISLATION
Urban Planning Law
Building Permit:
Article 21 – Except for the exemption specified in Article 26, obtaining a building permit from the municipality or governorate is mandatory for all structures covered by this law.
Any changes made to buildings with a permit also require obtaining a new permit. In such cases, if the gross area of the independent sections does not increase and their nature does not change, the permit is not subject to any taxes, fees, or charges.
However, repairs and renovations such as jointing, interior and exterior plastering, painting, whitewashing, gutters, downspouts, carpentry, flooring and ceiling coverings, electrical and plumbing repairs, roof repairs and tile replacement, as well as other alterations and repairs that do not affect the load-bearing elements specified in zoning regulations prepared by municipalities according to local conditions, are not subject to a permit.
Municipalities and governorates are authorized to regulate exterior wall paint, coverings, and the materials and colors of roofs to ensure harmony among buildings and achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance according to local and environmental characteristics. Buildings constructed before the enforcement of this law are also subject to this provision.
Measures and Obligations Regarding Construction, Repairs, and Garden Arrangement:
Article 34 – During ongoing construction, repairs, and the arrangement and planting of gardens, it is mandatory not to occupy roads, sidewalks, spaces belonging to municipalities, governorates, or neighbors, and not to damage underground or aboveground facilities in these areas. Traffic of vehicles and pedestrians must not be obstructed. If the building is constructed within three meters or less of the road boundary, the front of the building must be enclosed with wooden boards or suitable materials to prevent all hazards and must be illuminated at night.
If the building is constructed at the roadside, partial occupation of sidewalks may be permitted by the relevant authority in cases of necessity, provided that proper passage for pedestrians is ensured and the above measures are taken.
In such cases, the property owner or the person or organization responsible for the construction must take measures to prevent harm and hazards to passersby.
Concierge Apartments and Shelters:
Article 36 – In buildings where concierge apartments and shelters are mandatory, these units must meet the conditions and dimensions specified in the regulations.
Concierge apartments may be located within the main building or, provided they do not violate regulations, technical, or health requirements, arranged anywhere in the garden or within annex buildings, as long as their gross area does not exceed 40 square meters.
If spaces are allocated for the residence of personnel such as guards, gardeners, or boiler operators, the same conditions apply to these areas.