Obtaining a building permit is the first and most critical step before starting any construction project. Without an approved permit from the municipality, no legal construction activity can begin. This process involves architectural design, technical approvals, and coordination with multiple authorities.
In this guide, we explain the complete building permit process in Iran, clarify each step, and highlight the role of a professional architecture studio in speeding up and simplifying the procedure.
What Is a Building Permit?
A building permit (Construction License) is an official authorization issued by the municipality that allows the owner to construct, renovate, or expand a building according to approved regulations, zoning laws, and technical standards.
1. Opening a Municipal File
The process begins by submitting ownership documents to the municipality. Required documents usually include:
- Property deed
- National ID of the owner
- Previous permits (if applicable)
- Location and cadastral information
Once verified, an official file is opened for the project.
2. Issuance of Design Instruction (Planning Order)
At this stage, the municipality issues a design instruction specifying:
- Land-use zoning
- Allowed building height
- Floor area ratio (FAR)
- Setbacks and urban regulations
This document becomes the foundation for architectural design.
3. Architectural Design – Phase One
Based on the design instruction, the architect prepares Phase One architectural drawings, including:
- Floor plans
- Elevations and sections
- Area calculations
- Parking layouts
These drawings must strictly comply with municipal regulations.
4. Municipal Review and Approval
The submitted architectural plans are reviewed by the municipality.
If corrections are required, the plans are revised until final approval is granted.
✅ This stage is where professional experience makes a major difference.
5. Structural & MEP Design
After architectural approval, technical consultants prepare:
- Structural engineering drawings
- Electrical systems
- Mechanical and plumbing systems
All designs must align with national building codes.
6. Fee Calculation and Payment
The municipality calculates construction-related fees such as:
- Density charges
- Development fees
- Service and infrastructure costs
Once all fees are paid, the file moves to the final stage.
7. Issuance of the Building Permit
After completing all approvals and payments, the official building permit is issued. Construction can legally begin from this point onward.
8. How Long Does the Building Permit Process Take?
On average, the process takes 1 to 3 months, depending on:
- Project size
- Design complexity
- Accuracy of submitted documents
- Professional coordination with authorities
9. Why Working with an Architecture Studio Matters
Many delays in permit approval are caused by:
- Non-compliant designs
- Incomplete documentation
- Lack of coordination with municipal regulations
A professional architecture studio ensures:
- Regulation-compliant design from day one
- Faster approvals
- Reduced revisions and extra costs
Ribo Architecture Studio – From Permit to Execution
At Ribo Architecture Studio, we manage the entire building permit process as an integrated service—from initial concept and architectural design to municipal approvals and execution-ready documentation.
Our experience with urban regulations and municipal procedures allows our clients to move forward confidently, legally, and without unnecessary delays.
For professional consultation and full permit management, contact Ribo Architecture Studio.
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