Steps to issue an electronic building permit via the Balady platform in Saudi Arabia

Saudi real estate services are considered among the most important digital services that have contributed to facilitating construction procedures and real estate development within the Kingdom, as citizens and investors can now complete many transactions digitally without the need for complex paper-based procedures. One of the most important of these services is the building permit issuance service, which represents the essential step before starting any construction project.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explain how to issue a building permit step by step via the Balady platform, including how to track the application and reach the stage of building permit printing easily through official platforms. This helps simplify the procedures and complete them without complications.

Why do you need a building permit?

Obtaining a permit represents both a legal and technical protection factor, as it ensures that the project proceeds within an approved framework that prevents future problems. Ignoring it may expose the owner to violations or delays in services. The most important reasons that make issuing a building permit necessary are:

Avoiding fines and regulatory violations
Ensuring the project complies with the Saudi Building Code
Facilitating the connection of electricity, water, and sewage services
Protecting the property during sale or ownership transfer
Reducing the risk of future modifications

Building permit issuance requirements

Before starting the electronic procedures, it is necessary to ensure that the basic requirements are met to guarantee application approval without delay, as the relevant authorities rely directly on the accuracy of this data. The requirements for issuing a building permit include:

Ownership of the land with an official deed or certified authorization
Engineering drawings approved by a licensed engineering office
Full compliance with the Saudi Building Code
The land must be free of disputes or existing violations

Steps to issue a building permit via the Balady platform

Submission is now fully electronic, making the process faster and clearer without the need to visit government offices directly. The steps for issuing a building permit are as follows:

Log in to the “Balady” platform via the National Access system
Select construction permit services
Choose the required permit type (new construction, modification, or fencing)
Enter land details accurately (deed number, plan, and location)
Upload engineering drawings in PDF format
Review technical requirements and ensure compliance with the Building Code
Pay the fees electronically via the “SADAD” system
Receive the permit electronically with the option to print the building permit immediately

How much are building permit issuance fees?

Fees vary depending on the nature, size, and location of the project, and are calculated automatically during the application process without a fixed amount for all cases. The cost of issuing a building permit depends on:

Total construction area
Type of use (residential or commercial)
Location of the land within the city
Project-related services

The electronic service is characterized by fast processing compared to traditional methods, provided that all data and attachments are complete. A building permit is usually issued within 3 to 7 working days.

Entities involved in permit approval

The licensing process goes through several reviews to ensure compliance with safety and urban planning regulations, and includes:

Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing
Civil Defense
Utility service providers (electricity and water when required)

Saudi Building Code and its role in licensing

The Saudi Building Code is considered the main reference that all licensing processes rely on, as it defines the technical and engineering standards that must be followed in every project. It includes:

Distances between buildings
Permitted building heights
Thermal and acoustic insulation systems
Safety, electricity, and sewage requirements

Everything You Need to Know About Construction Costs in Saudi Arabia Before Starting Your Project

When is a building permit canceled?

There are specific cases that may lead to canceling the permit if regulations are not followed after issuance. The most notable cases include:

Failure to start construction within one year
Violation of approved architectural plans
Change of ownership without updating data

Issuance of a building completion certificate

After completing the project, an important step comes that is no less important than the permit itself, which is officially documenting the completion of the work.

The building completion certificate issuance is used to prove that the building has been constructed according to the approved plans, and it is essential for permanent utility connections and completing real estate procedures

Important tips before applying

Following certain guidelines helps speed up approval and avoid rejection or delays, including:

Ensuring the accuracy of land data
Choosing an accredited engineering office
Regularly tracking the application
Full compliance with the Building Code
Reviewing municipal requirements for the area

Frequently asked questions about building permit issuance

Can someone else apply on my behalf?

Yes, through a certified electronic authorization.

Do external additions require a permit?

Yes, a permit must be issued according to the regulations.

Can the permit be modified after issuance?

Yes, through the permit modification service on the Balady platform.

How to issue a building permit in Saudi Arabia | Your step-by-step guide