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São Tomé and Príncipe: A Guide to Building Permits and Procedures

Are you planning to build in São Tomé and Príncipe? Before breaking ground, it’s essential to navigate the country’s complex building permit process. Our guide breaks down the procedures, timeframes, and associated costs to help you understand what to expect.

Step 1: Request and Obtain Approval of Building Plans (7 days, STN 1,500)

  • Submit an application for a construction appraisal to the Directorate of Geographical and Cadastral Services (DSGC).
  • The application must include:
    • Title of the property
    • Site plan
    • Architectural design
    • Electrical design
    • Water and sewage design
  • The DSGC verifies if the application is complete and complies with zoning demands.

Step 2: Request Building Permit and Receive Site Inspection (14 days, STN 26,012)

  • After obtaining approval from the DSGC, submit an application for a building permit to the Directorate of Public Works (DOP).
  • The application includes similar documents as in Step 1.
  • The DOP verifies if the application is complete and complies with planning demands and technical requirements.

Step 3: Obtain Building Permit (14 days, STN 26,012)

  • If your application meets all conditions, you will receive a building permit from the DOP.

Step 4: Receive Random Inspection (1 day, no charge)

  • During construction, you may be subject to an unscheduled inspection by the Department of Public Works.

Step 5: Request Water Connection (1 day, no charge)

  • To obtain water services, submit an application to Empresa de Agua e Electricidade (EMAE).
  • The agency verifies if your application is complete and schedules a site inspection.

Step 6: Receive Inspection for Water (1 day, no charge)

  • During the inspection, EMAE checks if conditions are met to connect your building to the public water supply system.

Step 7: Connect to Water Services (7 days, USD 124)

  • After a successful inspection, EMAE connects your building to the public water supply system.

Step 8: Request Usage Permit (1 day, STN 3,902)

  • Once construction is complete, submit an application for a usage permit to the DOP.
  • The agency conducts a final site inspection and verifies if the work has been done according to approved plans.

Step 9: Receive Final Inspection (1 day, no charge)

  • After submitting your usage permit request, you will receive a final inspection from the Department of Public Works.

Step 10: Receive Usage Permit (12 days, no charge)

  • After a successful inspection, the DOP issues a usage permit for your building.

Step 11: Request Registration of Building in Fiscal Property Registry and Fiscal Property Certificate (1 day, no charge)

  • To register your building in the Fiscal Property Registry, submit two applications:
    • One to have the building registered
    • Another to obtain a fiscal property certificate

Step 12: Receive Inspection from Fiscal Property Registry (no charge)

  • At a scheduled date, a team from the Fiscal Property Registry conducts a site inspection to confirm the accuracy of your application.

By following these steps, you can ensure compliance with São Tomé and Príncipe’s building regulations and obtain the necessary permits for your project. Remember to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for each step in the process.