How to Obtain a Building Permit in France: Step-by-Step Guide
First, let’s clarify one thing: not every construction project in France requires a building permit. In some cases, a Déclaration Préalable (DP) is enough, and for minor works, no formal administrative authorization may be necessary. For a detailed comparison, see our article: Building Permit or Déclaration Préalable: Which One Do I Need in France?
If your project does require a building permit, how should you proceed?
Hire an Architect: The Simplest Way to Obtain a Building Permit in France
The easiest and most reliable solution is to hire an architect. An architect will manage all the steps of your project—from preparing the building permit application to handling all communications with local planning authorities, including the municipal technical services and planning department.
At DN Architectes, we not only prepare the entire building permit dossier, but we also ensure smooth coordination with authorities to avoid delays or complications.
If you prefer to handle the process yourself, follow this step-by-step guide
Step 1: Define Your Project
Start by clearly defining your project:
• Is it new construction, a renovation, or an extension?
• What habitable area do you plan?
• How many rooms, parking spaces, or outbuildings?
• Will there be a garden, swimming pool, or other exterior features?
A clear program will make it easier to prepare your building permit application.
Step 2: Check Planning Regulations
Your project must comply with either the PLU (Plan Local d’Urbanisme) or the RNU (Règlement National d’Urbanisme):
• Small villages: Call your city hall to check if a PLU exists. If not, your property falls under the RNU.
• Larger towns/cities: Most have a PLU.
Tip from DN Architectes: Request a Certificat d’Urbanisme (CU). This free certificate lists all planning rules and constraints applicable to your site and is an essential reference for your project.
Step 3: Study Site-Specific Rules (Graphics First, Then Text)
Once you know which regulation applies, study all site-specific rules carefully.
• If under RNU: consult Legifrance – RNU
• If under a PLU: search "PLU + [municipality name]". For example: "PLU Roquebrune-Cap-Martin"
Step 3a – Start with graphic documents:
• Review maps, plans, and diagrams.
• Identify your parcel and note all relevant features: zoning, flood risk areas (PPRI), soil movement risks, protected heritage zones, and any other site-specific conditions.
Step 3b – Then study the written regulations:
• These documents explain the rules that apply to what you see on the graphic plans.
• Carefully note all applicable constraints and requirements.
The examples above are illustrative; your site may have additional constraints. Make sure to review all plans and textual documents in full.
Step 4: Design Your Project
Design your project taking into account all the planning rules and site-specific constraints you have identified. Accurate plans now will save time later in the building permit process.
Step 5: Optional Pre-Consultation
It’s highly recommended to schedule a pre-consultation appointment with local urban planning authorities. Present your project and get feedback before submitting your application. This step can prevent potential issues and speed up approval.
Step 6: Prepare Your Building Permit Application
Your building permit application typically includes:
• Site plans and façades
• Landscape integration section
• 3D visualizations with site integration
• Written project description
• Photos of your property (close-up and distant views)
• Other documents required by local rules
Tip from DN Architectes: Start by downloading the Cerfa form n°13406*, which is the form used for building permits for private houses. The exact number (for example 13406*15) changes regularly because Cerfa forms are often updated, so always download the most recent version from the official government website.
Even if your municipality uses an online submission platform, this Cerfa remains extremely useful: it lists, in one place, all the documents and information the authorities will require you to provide. If your project is not a private house (for example a multi-unit building or a commercial project), you will need to use a different Cerfa, but the same principle applies.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
• Online submission is common in France.
• Some smaller municipalities still require paper submission.
• Ensure the correct number of copies if submitting in paper form, as indicated in the Cerfa form.
Step 8: Wait for Approval
After submission, authorities may request additional documents within the first month. You have 30 days to provide them.
Once your file is complete, you will receive:
• Building permit approval within 2 months for private houses
• 3 months for other projects
In some cases, the process may take longer.
Make the Process Easy with DN Architectes
As you can see, obtaining a building permit in France can be complex.
At DN Architectes, we guide you at every step - ensuring your project meets all legal requirements and receives approval smoothly.
