The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) has called on property owners and construction professionals to ensure they obtain the required permits for their projects in alignment with the state government’s THEMES+ agenda for development.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos, Abimbola Emdin-Umeh, the Director of Public Affairs at LASPPPA, emphasized the importance of obtaining permits for construction projects. This advice was reiterated during an interactive meeting with selected real estate developers by Kehinde Osinaike, the General Manager of LASPPPA.
Emdin-Umeh highlighted the concerning trend of property owners in Lagos carrying out construction without the necessary permits, often relying solely on a “Green Sticker” or “Letter of Authorization.”
He stressed that these approvals do not replace proper building permits and are a serious concern to the authority.
According to Emdin-Umeh, obtaining a planning permit before commencing construction is mandatory in Lagos, as mandated by Section 27, Sub-Section 1 of the Lagos State Planning Permit Regulations, 2019 as amended.
Kehinde Osinaike condemned the illegal change of use of buildings, such as converting residential buildings into commercial ones without approval, which violates zoning regulations and the state’s operating development plan.
Osinaike directed the commencement of a state-wide audit of existing buildings to confirm their conformity to the state’s development plan.
Osinaike emphasized that property owners must not change a building’s purpose without LASPPPA’s approval, as doing so would attract penalties.
Ms Osinaike underscored LASPPPA’s role as the sole authority responsible for approving changes in building usage and urged property owners to adhere to the regulations to avoid legal consequences..
