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Brussels-Capital Region

Planning permission in Brussels: the complete guide

CoBAT, timescales, costs, exemptions and procedures for building work in the 19 Brussels municipalities. What to know before you start.

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Planning permits in Brussels

Understand the CoBAT (Brussels Spatial Planning Code), the procedures, costs and timescales for your project.

Complete guideCoBAT, steps and procedures.CostsApplication fees by municipality.TimescalesFrom 75 to 450 days depending on the project.Work without a permitExemptions provided for by the CoBAT.Without an architectProjects exempt from the architect requirement.

Renovating in Brussels

Roof, façade, windows, conservatory: the rules for each type of renovation.

RoofPermits, insulation and grants.Façade and insulationExternal insulation and façade restoration.WindowsReplacing window frames.ConservatoryPermits and conditions.ConversionInterior alterations.

Building and extending

The rules for extensions, garages, sheds and outdoor works.

ExtensionExtending your home.Garage and carportConstruction or renovation.Garden shedRules and exemptions.TerraceTerraces and landscaping.Fences and wallsParty walls and boundaries.

The 19 Brussels municipalities

Find the contact details of each municipality's planning department. Municipalities handle permit applications in French or Dutch, not in English.

All municipalitiesIndex of the 19 municipalities.City of BrusselsIxellesSchaerbeekUccle

Quick links

The most visited pages on Brussels planning permits.

Guide to planning permits in BrusselsCost of a permitExtensionWork without a permitWork without an architectThe 19 municipalities

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about planning permits in Brussels.

Do I need a planning permit in Brussels?

The list of works that require a permit is set out in the CoBAT. Some minor works are exempt.

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How much does a planning permit cost in the Brussels Region?

Application fees vary by municipality and type of project. Expect anything from €0 to several hundred euros, excluding architect's fees.

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How long does it take to get a permit in Brussels?

Timescales range from 75 days for a simple procedure to 450 days with an impact study. Most everyday projects are dealt with in 75 to 160 days.

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What is the difference between the CoBAT and the CoDT?

The CoBAT governs planning in the Brussels-Capital Region, whereas the CoDT (Territorial Development Code) applies in Wallonia. The rules, exemptions and timescales differ between the two regions.

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Can I renovate my façade without a permit in Brussels?

Some façade renovations may be exempt from a permit if they do not change the external appearance of the building. Each case needs to be checked.

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Which works can I carry out without an architect in Brussels?

The CoBAT provides exemptions from the architect requirement for certain small-scale works. The conditions depend on each type of work.

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Latest updates

Recent additions to our Brussels guides.

February 2026Complete guide to planning permits in BrusselsEverything about the procedures, the CoBAT and the issuing authorities in the Brussels Region.February 2026Processing timescales: what changes75, 160 or 450 days? Understand the timescales for your type of project.February 2026Permit exemptions in BrusselsThe works you can carry out without a planning permit.

Brussels-Capital Region

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