Building permit

A building permit is normally required before erecting, altering or changing the use of a structure. In Switzerland, cantonal and communal law governs the procedure, while federal requirements may arise from spatial planning, environmental, heritage or infrastructure law. The authority examines conformity with the land-use zone, building dimensions, distances, access, safety, environmental effects and neighbour protection. Public notice and objections are common for significant projects. A permit does not replace private-law rights, such as ownership or easements, but it allows the project from a public-law perspective. Unauthorised building may lead to orders to stop work, fines or restoration.