Building Law in a narrower sense

Building Law in a narrower sense contains the following provisions:

  • Basic requirements of land
  • Basic requirements of buildings
  • Permissible usage of land
  • Procedural rules

Basic requirements of land

Land, on which the construction of a building is planned, has to be ripe for development in the sense that:

  • land use planning for the property in question is complete
    the property is (or will be in the foreseeable future)

    • accessible by road
    • connected to the water grid
    • connected to the power grid
    • connected to the public sewer system

Basic requirements of buildings

Buildings, structures and their surroundings have to be designed in such a manner that they, each for themselves and in combination with each other as a whole, give a favorable or pleasing impression.

In particular, special attention has to be paid to buildings and land under cultural heritage protection or nature conservation areas.

Buildings also have to comply with these rules:

  • the recognized rules of construction have to be adhered to
  • no materials may be used that can cause health impediments
  • the home hygiene and work hygiene rules have to be adhered to
  • adequate fire prevention and protection measures are to be provided
  • buildings are to be insulated to achieve as high an energy-efficiency as possible
  • buildings that are open to the public have to allow for the needs of the disabled and elderly
  • buildings may not hinder or endanger the traffic on public roads
  • enough parking space is to be provided in accordance with the applicable laws
  • apartment houses have to provide safe areas for children or garden areas or similar

Permissible usage of land

Buildings are to be constructed in accordance with the rules applicable that govern:

  • the area of a property that may be used for construction in relation to the area that is to remain free
  • the distance to
    • the property borders
    • neighboring buildings
    • roads and railroads
    • forest
    • water bodies
  • dimensions such as
    • height
    • volume
    • number of floors (above and below ground)

Special rules apply to high-rise buildings.

Requirements for buildings and rooms

Construction law contains provisions governing:

  • heating systems
  • elevators / escalators
  • living quarters; these have to provide adequate protection
    • against noise
    • vibrations
    • moisture
    • harmful influences of temperature
    • against fire
  • ventilation
  • lighting (natural light)
  • room hight
  • doors (width)
  • emergency exits and escape routes

Procedural rules

  • Building permit
  • Remedies / rules of appeal
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