Planning Permission
In Cuba, it is necessary to apply for planning permission before building or renovating a property. The procedure includes the following steps:
- Obtain a land survey and soil test from a registered engineer or architect
- Submit the land survey and soil test, along with other necessary documents, to the local municipality or provincial government
- The local municipality or provincial government will review the documents and issue a building permit if all requirements are met
Listed Building Status and Conservation Areas
In Cuba, listed building status, conservation areas, and preservation orders are overseen by the National Heritage Council (Consejo Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural). Listed buildings and conservation areas are protected by law, and any building or renovation work must be approved by the National Heritage Council. Preservation orders can be issued by the local municipality or provincial government, and any work on a property subject to a preservation order must be approved by the municipality or provincial government.
Finding Reliable Builders
To find reliable, trustworthy builders in Cuba, it is recommended to look for builders who belong to a professional organisation. One such organisation is the National Union of Architects and Engineers of Cuba (Unión Nacional de Arquitectos e Ingenieros de la Construcción de Cuba), which can be contacted at:
- Address: Calle 17 # 305 esq. a G, Vedado, Havana
- Phone: +53 7 833 3118
- Email: unaic@unaic.co.cu
- Website: http://www.unaic.co.cu/
Permits and Licenses
When building or renovating property in Cuba, it is important to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. These may include a building permit, an environmental permit, and a water supply and sewerage permit. The specific permits required will depend on the nature of the project and its location.
Finding a Local Architect
To find a local architect in Cuba, it is recommended to look for architects who belong to a professional body. One such body is the National Union of Architects of Cuba (Unión Nacional de Arquitectos de Cuba), which can be contacted at:
- Address: Calle 23, No. 154, entre N y O, Vedado, Havana
- Phone: +53 7 838 3106
- Email: uia@arquitectosdecuba.cu
- Website: http://www.arquitectosdecuba.cu/
Pitfalls When Buying Land
When buying land in Cuba, it is important to be aware of potential pitfalls related to planning permission and boundaries. It is recommended to work with a lawyer who is familiar with the local laws and regulations. It is also important to obtain a land survey to ensure that the boundaries of the property are clearly defined. Additionally, it is important to check that the land is zoned for the intended use, as some areas may have restrictions on the type of development allowed. It is also important to note that the Cuban government maintains ownership of all land, and individuals may only obtain long-term leases rather than full ownership.