All licences & permits
Local government
Development Permission / Building Plan Approval
Approval required before undertaking regulated development or construction in Kampala.
Who needs it
Property owners/developers undertaking construction, alteration, addition or other development.
Development must comply with zoning, planning and building requirements.
Instrument type: Development / Construction Permit
Related requirements noted by the issuing authority: Occupation permit, renovation permit, demolition permit, hoarding permit, excavation permit, chain-link permit, etc.
Fees
Architectural plans inspection: UGX 1,000 per m² of ground-floor area; structural plans inspection: UGX 30,000 per suspended slab; other applicable fees depend on the development.
Fees are generally subject to VAT unless otherwise specified.
Documents required
- Land ownership documents, architectural/structural plans, application documents and other documents required by KCCA.
Steps to apply
- 1Engage relevant professionals
- 2Prepare plans
- 3Submit application
- 4Technical/planning review
- 5Approval
- 6Payment of applicable fees.
Key facts
- Processing time
- Depends on nature and complexity of application.
- Validity / renewal
- Building plan approval lapses where development has not commenced within 18 months, or where commenced but not completed within the prescribed period; resumption approval may be required.
- Legal basis
- Physical Planning Act, 2010; Building Control Act, 2013; Building Control Regulations, 2020 and related planning instruments.