Planning permits in Belgium: the 2026 guide

In Wallonia, a planning permit is required for projects such as building or extending a building, altering the topography, demolishing a structure or installing advertising. Some works are exempt from a permit or fall under a simplified permit. The permit must be applied for before work starts.

In Wallonia, the municipality is responsible for issuing the planning permit and checks compliance with the laws and regulations in force. In the Brussels-Capital Region, the permit is issued by the municipality or by the delegated official (urban.brussels), depending on the type of project.

In Wallonia, planning permits are governed by the CoDT (Walloon Territorial Development Code). In the Brussels-Capital Region, they are governed by the CoBAT (Brussels Spatial Planning Code). In France, the Local Urban Plan (PLU) is the reference for building permits and prior declarations.

In Brussels, processing times range from 75 to 450 days depending on the procedure. In France, allow around 1 month for a prior declaration of works and 2 to 3 months for a building permit.

In Brussels, using an architect is mandatory, except for the exceptions provided for by the CoBAT. In France, an architect is mandatory for any construction exceeding 150 m² of floor area.

In France, a prior declaration is enough for small works (less than 20 m² of floor area), while a building permit is required above that. Both authorisations are reviewed by the town hall of the municipality where the project is located.