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Building a house in Costa Rica: permits step by step

Before buying a lot to build on, it pays to know what the municipality requires. The steps are almost the same in Osa, Pérez Zeledón and Quepos.

1. Land use

Ask the municipality for the land-use certificate (uso de suelo): it states what can be built, how many floors and how much of the lot can be covered.

2. Water and electricity

You need water availability letters (AyA or the ASADA) and electricity availability. Without them you cannot move forward with the plans or the permit.

3. Setbacks from rivers and springs

The Forestry Law protects a strip along rivers and streams (15 meters in flat rural areas, 50 meters on steep terrain) and a 100-meter radius around permanent springs. You cannot build in those areas.

4. Plans and review

Plans are drawn by professionals registered with the Federated College of Engineers and Architects (CFIA) and reviewed on the digital APC platform (seismic code, electrical code, etc.).

5. Insurance and municipal permit

Before work starts you take out the INS workers’ risk policy. With the approved plans and the policy, the municipality issues the building permit once the fees are paid.

Tip for the south

Plan earthworks and access roads in the dry season (December to April): in the rainy season many gravel roads become difficult.

Browse lots for sale in Real estate.

General information, not legal advice. Always check with a Costa Rican lawyer or notary.

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