Proposed reforms to building permit regulations and the management of listed buildings are currently under development in Cyprus, following a recent meeting between the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) and the Ministry of Interior.
According to a press release issued by ETEK, the meeting, which was attended by ETEK President Konstantinos Konstantis and Minister of Interior Konstantinos Ioannou, took place in a constructive climate and focused on reforms to development licensing procedures as well as policies concerning listed properties.
ETEK welcomed the initiatives being promoted by the Ministry in line with the state’s housing policy, noting that the Chamber has already submitted relevant recommendations.
Simplifying building permit fees
A key issue discussed was the licensing of developments and, in particular, the need to simplify the formula used to calculate building permit fees. The existing process was described as time-consuming and complex, often resulting in inconsistencies in how fees are applied.
The Minister of Interior confirmed that a draft set of Regulations revising the current fee calculation methodology will soon be submitted for public consultation. Following consultation, the Regulations will undergo legal review before being forwarded to Parliament for approval.
Structural upgrades without a building permit
The meeting also addressed a proposed regulation, which was submitted following an ETEK recommendation, that would exempt certain structural upgrade works from the obligation to obtain a building permit.
Under the proposal, such works would fall under a special exemption notification procedure, which is also expected to be subject to public consultation. The aim is to encourage structural improvements and upgrades across existing buildings.
Unlicensed and listed buildings
Regarding the regularisation of existing unlicensed buildings, the Ministry stated that it agrees in principle with ETEK’s proposal, with further discussions planned to progress a relevant legislative framework.
Special reference was also made to forthcoming changes affecting listed buildings. Proposed measures aim to accelerate the approval process for maintenance works and low-risk additions, while also increasing the recognised restoration cost to better reflect rising construction expenses.
Development rights mechanism
Finally, ETEK highlighted the need for a mechanism to manage funds generated from the transfer of development rights from listed buildings. This would operate as a form of “bank” for allocating both development rights and their monetary value.
The Minister indicated that the proposal is viewed positively, with steps expected to follow.
Overall, the meeting confirms that significant reforms to development licensing and listed building management are underway, with public consultation and legislative processes set to follow.
