Generally speaking, formal authorisation are required when you undertake new construction work or renovation work to an existing building.
Two main authorisations currently exist as a matter of French Law:1. Permis de construire (planning permission) : This is required for the main major works undertaken over a property of for a new building.The intervention of an architect may be also required under specific circumstances.2. Déclaration préalable de travaux (work declaration) :
Two main authorisations currently exist as a matter of French Law:1. Permis de construire (planning permission) : This is required for the main major works undertaken over a property of for a new building.The intervention of an architect may be also required under specific circumstances.2. Déclaration préalable de travaux (work declaration) :
Such a declaration would notably be necessary for:
- A garage or adding an outter building (“dépendance” in French) if the surface is less than 20 square metres;
- The construction of a wall of more than 2 m in height;
- Some swimming-pools;
- Work modifying the external aspect of the building; etc
For further information on French construction law please click here.