| This is the best way to do it Getting a Building Permit: You must get a construction permit to build a house of more than 70 sq. m. (750 sq. ft.) You or your architect must file for permits at the Oficina Receptora de Permisos de Construccion (Permit Reception Office). The plans will be studied by representatives from the MOPT (Roads and Transportation Department), INVU (Housing and Urban Development Department), ICE (Electricity Department), AYA (Water Department), SNE (National Electrical Services), CFIA (Costa Rican Architect and Engineer Association), the Health Department and the local municipality where the property is located. You will need the following: Four copies of the construction plans. Four copies of the property cadastre plan (plano catastrado). ("Cadastre" refers to property valuation, owership and description of the property.) Two copies of the property deeds. One copy of the architect or engineer's consulting contract (Contrato de Consultoria). Approval from the water department regarding availability of water. One Copy of your electrical design plan apporved by SNE. | 
