A commercially attractive site is not necessarily ready for construction. We help assess planning permission, building-control requirements and enforcement risks before acquisition, mobilisation or a change in operations.
Identify the approvals the project actually needs
The applicable state building code determines the building-control procedure. Requirements differ between Germany’s federal states and between ordinary and special buildings. Some projects are exempt from a permit procedure, but exemption does not remove the obligation to comply with substantive law.
A change of use can require approval even where little physical work is proposed. Consider fire safety, access, parking, noise, heritage and environmental requirements alongside the permitted use. A building permit may not replace every separate authorisation.
Prepare a decision-ready application
We work with the project’s technical advisers to identify legal obstacles, information requests and options for a preliminary ruling on defined questions. Before relying on a preliminary decision, check exactly which issue it resolves, its validity and any conditions.
A refusal, restrictive condition or prolonged lack of decision requires a procedural assessment. The appropriate objection, action or interim application depends on the decision, state rules and circumstances. Do not infer a general approval merely from administrative silence.
Respond to stop-work and use-prohibition orders
Check service, deadlines and immediate enforceability. Continuing work in breach of an enforceable order can worsen the position. The response may combine urgent relief, a revised application and practical measures to remove the authority’s concerns.
Four practical examples
Illustrative scenarios: the appropriate steps depend on the contract, evidence and applicable law. These are not reports of client matters.
A warehouse becomes a gym
The owner assumes the existing permit is sufficient. Assess the new occupancy, parking and fire-safety implications before opening.
A permit contains a costly condition
A required access arrangement changes project economics. Examine whether the condition can be challenged or satisfied through an alternative design.
An extension already started
The authority orders work to stop. Secure the decision and approved plans immediately and assess regularisation and interim protection.
An acquisition with uncertain use
A purchaser needs a particular operating use. Make the planning position a transaction issue before committing to an unconditional purchase.
Documents that help us assess your position
The site address, state, existing permissions, drawings, intended use, authority correspondence, relevant plans and any enforcement decision.
Discuss your project or dispute
Tell us where the project is located, who is involved and whether a deadline is approaching. We can then clarify the scope of the proposed engagement and the next steps.
Related construction law services
Legal framework & further reading
Reviewed: 12 November 2026. Statutory references are to German law unless stated otherwise.