Do your own building application or have it prepared?
First check the requirements for your project: which plans do you need to provide, who has to co-sign and how is it submitted? These questions help you decide between doing it yourself and using an application file service.
Publisher: SL Handel GmbH · Linked sources as of 24.10.2026.
1. Clarify the requirements before drawing
Identify the competent office for the plot and clarify the zone, type of construction and procedure. A project may require a permit, a notification or additional technical certificates. The local and cantonal pages lead to the official submission routes.
The canton of Zurich lists, among other things, the application form, the cadastral plan and project plans as submission documents; which additional documents and copies are required must be checked with the competent office. Official document overview, Zurich.
2. Check existing documents
- Do the plans show the specific plot with the planned structure and distances?
- Are floor plan, elevation and the necessary sections available with clear dimensions?
- Are the roof, materials, drainage and actual use described?
- Are the required signatures, powers of attorney and technical evidence clarified?
A manufacturer's plan usually describes the product. For the submission, it must also be placed in the context of the site. The building application document checklist helps you compile everything.
3. Weigh doing it yourself against getting support
| Question | Prepare yourself | Have the application file prepared |
|---|---|---|
| Plans and forms | You prepare and check the required documents. | You clarify the scope needed and hand over existing material. |
| Local requirements | You align the project and submission with the authority. | The local assessment is part of the agreed order. |
| Signatures | You organise all the prescribed signatures. | Required signatures and powers of attorney still need to be organised. |
| Follow-up questions | You respond to requests for additional information and adjust documents. | Check whether follow-up questions and adjustments are included in the price. |
Building application without an architect: who may draw up plans?
Requirements differ by canton and project. Clarify explicitly whether a qualified person must be involved as the project author. A digital submission route does not replace professional requirements. The cantonal information pages are linked in our official sources.
How much does the support cost?
Our first enquiry is free. The site-specific preliminary check costs CHF 149. The minor building application costs CHF 690 for the agreed scope of the application file, including submission and follow-up questions; a paid preliminary check is credited. Authority fees and agreed additional services are extra.
All building application costs and services · Distinguish dossier lead time from the authorities' procedure
Frequently asked questions about doing your own submission
Can I do a building application myself?
Whether you can prepare and submit the documents yourself depends on the project and the cantonal requirements. In particular, clarify whether a qualified plan author must be involved and which plans, evidence and signatures are required.
Are a few photos and a hand sketch enough for the submission?
They are helpful for our first enquiry. The actual submission requires the forms and plans requested by the competent office. Photos and sketches do not automatically replace these documents.
Can a service provider submit the building application for me?
Representation must be clarified for the specific submission route and the required power of attorney. The client, landowner and, where applicable, the plan author must provide the required signatures.
Have existing plans checked
Give the address, structure, dimensions and existing documents. You decide after the assessment.