Updated 2026-06-15 · by Equipo Técnico
Building permits in Alicante: minor vs major works 2026
In Alicante, a minor works licence covers renovations with no change to structure, facade or use, and in many towns it is processed by responsible declaration, which lets you start on filing the paperwork. A major works licence is required when a renovation touches the structure, extends floor area or changes the use, needs a stamped technical project and can take 1 to 3 months to grant. The key is the real scope of the work.
Before starting any works it pays to know which licence you need, because getting it wrong can lead to a stop order and fines. The key question is whether the work affects the structure, the facade, the volume or the use of the building.
Minor works: what it covers
- Interior renovations without touching structure or facade layout.
- Changing bathrooms, kitchen, floors, tiling, paint and joinery.
- Replacing plumbing and electrical installations.
- Changing windows keeping the opening and a compliant colour.
Most home renovations are minor works. In many Alicante municipalities they are handled by responsible declaration, which lets you begin work when you file the paperwork rather than waiting for an express grant.
Major works: when it is required
- Extensions of floor area or volume (an extra storey, an annexe).
- Changes to structural elements: beams, columns, slabs.
- Renovations that open up load-bearing walls or move the structure.
- Change of use (for example, from commercial to residential).
- Facade work that alters its composition.
What costs each licence involves
- A council processing fee, which varies from town to town.
- The construction tax (ICIO), calculated on the material execution budget.
- For major works, the technical project stamped by a qualified technician.
- For major works, the works supervision that signs off and controls the job.
ICIO is calculated on the material execution budget and each council sets its rate. On top comes the planning fee. Major works also add the cost of the project and the supervision signed off by a qualified technician.
How to apply, step by step
- Define the scope and decide whether it is minor or major.
- Gather documents: report, budget and, for major works, a stamped project.
- File with the council (responsible declaration or licence request).
- Pay the fee and the ICIO tax.
- For major works, wait for the grant before starting.
- On completion, notify the end of works if the town requires it.
We handle permits for overseas owners
Minor works by responsible declaration let you start immediately in many towns. Major works take 1 to 3 months depending on the council workload and project complexity. For non-resident owners we manage the whole process under your authorisation, so you do not have to deal with Spanish administration or travel to file paperwork.