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Writer's pictureGabriel Mikael

Basic Estimated Construction Permit Cost

The cost of construction permits in the Philippines varies depending on the location, the type of project (residential, commercial, industrial), the size of the property, and the scope of the construction. Here's a rough cost estimate for various construction permits typically required for residential and commercial projects. These costs apply to most parts of the Philippines, though they may vary slightly by region, including Cagayan de Oro or other cities.

1. Building Permit

The cost of a Building Permit is usually based on the total project cost or the floor area of the building. This permit fee is calculated using a fixed percentage rate set by the local government.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • For small residential projects (e.g., bungalow, <100 sqm): ₱5,000 - ₱10,000.

    • For medium residential projects (100 - 200 sqm): ₱10,000 - ₱20,000.

    • For large residential or commercial projects (>200 sqm): ₱20,000 - ₱50,000 or more, depending on the total project cost.

  • Factors affecting cost: Size of the house, complexity of the design, and type of construction (e.g., commercial projects tend to have higher fees).

2. Barangay Clearance

Before applying for a building permit, you need to secure a Barangay Clearance to ensure that the project is approved by the local community.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • ₱500 - ₱1,500 depending on the barangay.

  • Factors affecting cost: The fee varies from one barangay to another, but for residential projects, it's usually minimal.

3. Zoning Clearance

A Zoning Clearance ensures that your project complies with the local land use and zoning regulations. This cost is often based on the land area and the type of project.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Small residential project: ₱1,000 - ₱3,000.

    • Medium-sized project: ₱3,000 - ₱8,000.

    • Large commercial project: ₱10,000 - ₱15,000.

  • Factors affecting cost: Size of the property and the nature of the project (residential, commercial, or industrial).

4. Sanitary/Plumbing Permit

A Sanitary or Plumbing Permit is required to ensure that your plumbing and sanitation systems are compliant with local health and safety standards.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Residential project: ₱1,000 - ₱3,000.

    • Commercial project: ₱2,000 - ₱5,000.

  • Factors affecting cost: The complexity of the plumbing system and the size of the building.

5. Electrical Permit

The Electrical Permit ensures that your electrical system is safe and complies with the Philippine Electrical Code.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Residential project: ₱1,000 - ₱5,000.

    • Commercial project: ₱5,000 - ₱10,000.

  • Factors affecting cost: The electrical load requirements of the building, which are higher for larger or commercial projects.

6. Mechanical Permit

If your project involves the installation of air conditioning systems, elevators, or other mechanical systems, you’ll need a Mechanical Permit.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Residential project: ₱1,000 - ₱3,000 (if simple air conditioning).

    • Commercial project: ₱3,000 - ₱10,000 (depending on the complexity of the mechanical systems).

7. Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance

The Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance is required to ensure that your project complies with fire safety regulations. The cost of this permit depends on the size and scope of the project.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Small residential project: ₱1,000 - ₱3,000.

    • Medium residential/commercial project: ₱3,000 - ₱10,000.

    • Large commercial or industrial projects: ₱10,000 - ₱20,000+.

  • Factors affecting cost: The size and complexity of the project and the fire protection systems installed (e.g., sprinklers, alarms).

8. Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC)

An ECC is required if the construction project has a significant environmental impact. This is typically needed for large commercial or industrial projects but may not be required for small residential constructions.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Small residential projects usually do not require an ECC.

    • For medium to large projects: ₱5,000 - ₱10,000 for the processing fee, depending on the environmental impact.

    • Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) cost (if required): This can be more expensive depending on the project, starting from ₱20,000 - ₱50,000 or more for extensive environmental assessments.

9. Locational Clearance

A Locational Clearance certifies that your construction project complies with the approved land use plan of the local government.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Residential project: ₱500 - ₱3,000.

    • Commercial project: ₱3,000 - ₱10,000.

10. Certificate of Occupancy

The Certificate of Occupancy certifies that the building is safe and complies with the approved building plans. This is required after the completion of construction.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • Small residential project: ₱2,000 - ₱5,000.

    • Medium to large project: ₱5,000 - ₱15,000.

11. Fencing Permit

If you are constructing a fence around your property, you will need a Fencing Permit.

  • Estimated Cost:

    • ₱1,000 - ₱3,000 depending on the size and complexity of the fence.

Other Potential Costs:

  • Demolition Permit (if required): ₱1,000 - ₱5,000 depending on the size and type of structure being demolished.

  • Excavation Permit: ₱500 - ₱2,000.

  • Contractor’s License: If you hire a contractor, ensure they are licensed, which may cost an additional ₱5,000 - ₱10,000 if they don’t have one.

  • Other Special Permits (e.g., heritage, environmental, or specific utility permits) may add extra costs, particularly for larger, more complex projects.

Contingency Fund

When estimating the total cost of permits, it's a good idea to set aside a contingency fund of around 10-15% of your overall budget. This ensures that you’re prepared for any additional or unexpected costs, such as amendments to the design or delays in the approval process.


For most residential projects in the Philippines, the total cost of permits (including the building permit, barangay clearance, zoning clearance, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety permits) ranges from ₱15,000 to ₱50,000. Larger commercial projects or industrial constructions can expect to pay ₱50,000 to ₱150,000 or more, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.


Basic Estimated Construction Permit Cost
Basic Estimated Construction Permit Cost

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