Building licences in Málaga: major and minor works
End-to-end handling of building licences before Málaga and Costa del Sol town halls. We draft the technical project, file the paperwork, pay the fees and follow up until approval — for both <em>obra mayor</em> (major works) and <em>obra menor</em> (minor works).
Major vs minor works: quick comparison
A quick table to know which route applies. If in doubt, the technical visit is always free.
| Minor works | Major works | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical scope | Floor and tile changes, sanitaryware, kitchen, bathroom, paint, AC | Structural works, layout changes, extensions, change of use, new build |
| Documentation | Technical memo and quote | Full technical project signed by chartered technician |
| Site management | Usually not required | Mandatory (site director and execution director) |
| Typical duration | 15–30 days | 2–4 months |
| Fee guidance | From €300 plus town hall fees | From €800 plus town hall fees and project budget |
| Full page | Minor works licence | Major works licence |
Major or minor works?
Start by knowing what you need
The distinction is not about budget: it depends on whether the works touch structure, layout or use. Before quoting anything we run a technical visit to define the licence.
File the right paperwork
Every town hall asks for slightly different details. We prepare the exact memo and drawings the municipality requires to avoid rejections and delays.
How we handle the licence
-
01
Initial study
Site visit, review of cadastre and local planning, decision on the appropriate licence with you.
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02
Technical paperwork
Project or technical memo, drawings and annexes required by the municipality.
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03
Filing and fees
Formal filing, payment of town hall fees and the ICIO (construction tax).
-
04
Active follow-up
We answer technical requests from the town hall and follow the file until approval.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start the works before the licence is granted?
No. Starting without a licence exposes you to work stoppage, fines and a harder later procedure. Some minor works can be started under a prior communication filing, and even then it must be registered first.
How long does a licence take in Málaga?
It depends on the town hall and complexity. As a guide, minor works are usually resolved in 15–30 days and major works in 2–4 months when paperwork is complete.
Do I need an architect for the licence?
For major works, yes — a technical project signed by a chartered technician and site management are mandatory. For minor works it is often enough to have a signed technical memo.
Are there fees on top of the town hall charge?
Yes — the processing fee plus the ICIO (a percentage of the works budget). Both are itemised in the quote we send before filing.
Can we legalise works already done?
Sometimes. Regularisation follows a specific procedure and not all works can be legalised. We always run a feasibility study first.
Related services
Major works licence
Extensions, structural works, change of use and new builds.
See serviceMinor works licence
Non-structural refurbishment: kitchens, bathrooms, finishes.
See serviceBusiness activity licence
Handling for bars, restaurants, retail, offices and workshops.
See serviceBuilding legalisation
Regularise unlicensed works or undeclared extensions.
See serviceWritten by: PROYECTOS MÁLAGA technical team — chartered architects and technicians. · Last updated:
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