How to Obtain Building in Lagos State
Introduction
Lagos State is Nigeria’s commercial powerhouse and most urbanized region, making it a prime location for property development. However, due to its high population density and rapid urbanization, the state government strictly regulates land use and building construction through various agencies and laws. To erect any physical structure legally within Lagos, it is mandatory to obtain a building approval, often referred to as a building plan permit, from the relevant authorities. Failure to do so can lead to hefty fines, demolition of structures, or legal consequences.
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to obtain building approval in Lagos State, from understanding what the process entails to complying with all legal and technical requirements. Whether you are an investor, landowner, developer, or aspiring home builder, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the approval system successfully and lawfully.
Understanding Building Approval
Building approval is a legal authorization granted by the Lagos State Government, through its designated agencies, for the construction, modification, renovation, or demolition of a structure. The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) are the key agencies responsible for managing and enforcing these regulations.
The aim of the building approval process is to ensure that structures meet established planning standards, safety requirements, zoning laws, and environmental impact regulations. Approval protects public health, maintains urban planning integrity, and prevents future legal conflicts.
Why Building Approval is Necessary
Legal Compliance: It is illegal to build in Lagos without proper approval.
Avoid Demolition: Unapproved buildings can be demolished by LASBCA.
Resale Value: Properties with approvals are more valuable and easier to sell.
Utility Access: You’ll need approval to access government infrastructure.
Mortgage and Loans: Financial institutions require approved plans before lending.
Key Regulatory Agencies Involved
Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA)
Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA)
Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPPUD)
Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA)
New Towns Development Authority (NTDA) (for government schemes)
Land Use Allocation Committee (LUAC) (for land-related queries)
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Building Approval in Lagos State
1. Obtain Land Title Documents Before applying for a building permit, ensure that the land is legally acquired and free from encumbrances. The following documents are needed:
Deed of Assignment or Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Registered Survey Plan
Land Purchase Receipt
Governor’s Consent (if land is not originally allocated by the government)
2. Engage a Qualified Professional Team You must hire registered professionals to prepare and submit your building drawings:
Architect (for building design and layout)
Structural Engineer (for structural drawings)
Mechanical/Electrical Engineers (for service drawings)
Town Planner (for application filing and coordination)
3. Prepare Required Building Plans and Documents The following drawings and documents must be prepared and submitted:
Architectural Drawings
Structural Drawings
Mechanical & Electrical Drawings
Site Plan and Survey Plan
Title Documents (C of O, Deed of Assignment, etc.)
Soil Test Report (especially for multi-storey buildings)
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for large projects
4. Conduct Pre-Screening and Site Inspection A pre-screening visit is usually done by LASPPPA officials to verify the land and building drawings. The site will be physically inspected for zoning compliance, road setbacks, and drainage alignment.
5. Submit Application for Planning Permit (Building Plan Approval) All documents are submitted either through LASPPPA’s physical offices or via the Lagos State Planning Permit Management System (PPMS) online portal. A file is opened for your application.
6. Pay Required Fees Approval attracts various statutory fees, including:
Processing Fee
Infrastructure Development Charge (IDC)
Lagos State Planning Permit Levy
Stage Certification Fees
Fence and Gate Charges
Value Added Tax (VAT)
The amount depends on location, size, usage (residential, commercial, industrial), and number of floors.
7. Assessment and Vetting of Plans Your drawings and documents will be vetted by LASPPPA to ensure compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and safety standards. This includes structural review and cross-checking dimensions.
8. Site Visit and Confirmation of Drawings Officials will revisit the site to confirm that submitted drawings match the physical characteristics of the site.
9. Issuance of Approval Permit Upon successful vetting and compliance, LASPPPA issues the Planning Permit (Building Approval). The document is stamped and should be kept safe.
10. Notify LASBCA Before Commencing Construction After getting the approval, you must register your project with the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) before construction starts. LASBCA supervises the building process and ensures adherence to approved plans.
11. Mandatory Building Stage Certification At each critical stage of construction—foundation, DPC, lintel, roofing—you must invite LASBCA for inspection and certification. Non-compliance can halt construction.
12. Final Completion Certificate After construction and satisfactory inspections, you may apply for a Certificate of Completion and Fitness for Habitation. This proves your building is fit for occupancy.
Common Reasons for Delay or Rejection
Incomplete documentation
Building drawings not signed by registered professionals
Land under government acquisition or dispute
Contravention of zoning regulations
Setback violations
Environmental impact concerns
Tips for a Smooth Approval Process
Engage licensed professionals with experience in Lagos approvals
Ensure all documents are accurate and consistent
Avoid illegal land or government-acquired areas
Do not start construction without approvals
Maintain a record of all communications and payments
Estimated Timeframe for Approval Ideally, building approval can be obtained within 4–6 weeks if all documents are in order. However, delays may occur due to complex reviews, site disputes, or agency backlogs.
Legal Implications of Non-Compliance Constructing without proper approval is a criminal offense in Lagos State. Consequences include:
Sealing or demolition of structure
Heavy fines and penalties
Legal prosecution
Denial of property valuation or resale
Conclusion
Obtaining building approval in Lagos State is a mandatory and vital step for every developer, homeowner, or investor. It ensures that your construction complies with physical planning laws and that your building is safe, habitable, and legally recognized. By following the right process and engaging competent professionals, you avoid future risks and secure the full legal protection for your investment.
If you’re planning to build in Lagos State, take the building approval process seriously—it’s your pathway to lawful development, peace of mind, and long-term value.
Call to Action
Navigating building regulations in Lagos State can be complex—but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Chaman Law Firm, we specialize in helping individuals, property developers, and businesses process and secure their building approvals, land title verifications, Governor’s Consent, and development permits smoothly and legally.
✅ Avoid Delays, Demolitions, and Fines
✅ Comply Fully with LASPPPA & LASBCA Requirements
✅ Protect Your Investment with Legal Backing
📞Phone: 08065553671, 08096888818
✉ Email: chamanlawfirm@gmail.com
📍 Address: 115, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Allen Junction, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
🌍Click here to learn more about Chaman Law Firm
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