Bauantrag

A Bauantrag is a formal application to the building authority of a municipality in Germany to obtain permission to construct, modify, or demolish a building or part of it. It is usually required for new buildings and substantial alterations; smaller projects may be subject to exemptions such as genehmigungsfreie Vorhaben or Bauanzeige, depending on the state rule.

The legal framework is provided by the Baugesetzbuch (BauGB) and the respective state building regulations. The Bauantrag is submitted to the local Bauaufsichtsbehörde, typically the building department of the city or town. For some projects, a Voranfrage or advisory procedures with other authorities may occur, and additional requirements can apply for Denkmalpflege, environmental protection, or special construction rules.

Typical documents accompanying a Bauantrag include a Lageplan (site plan), Bauzeichnungen (floor plans, elevations, sections), Baubeschreibung, statische Nachweise, and safety-related proofs such as brandschutz-, schall-, or energy-related documents (e.g., Energiebedarfsausweis). Depending on the project, further information on drainage, access, accessibility, environmental impact, or historic preservation may be required.

Process and outcome: The building authority reviews formality and compliance with planning and building regulations, possibly requesting supplementary information or holding consultations. The decision (Bescheid) can grant or deny the permit and may include conditions (Auflagen). If refused, there are legal remedies such as Widerspruch or Klage. A granted Bauantrag permits the start of construction, subject to the stated conditions. Processing times vary by project complexity and jurisdiction.