Which documents do I need for a building application?
For a pergola, louvred roof, carport, garden shed, pool or heat pump, the plans, forms and location must match. This checklist helps you prepare; the binding list of documents comes from the competent building authority.
Linked municipal guides as of: 24.10.2026 · Publisher: SL Handel GmbH, Zug.
1. Describe the location and project
- Address, municipality and canton, plus the plot number if known.
- Type and use of the structure, planned floor area and height.
- Photos of the location and any existing sketch or manufacturer's drawing.
- State whether the structure is only planned or already built; enclose any letters from the authority.
This helps narrow down the competent office and open questions. Go to the overview of cities and municipalities.
2. Put together plans and forms
| Document | What to watch out for? |
|---|---|
| Application form | Current municipal or cantonal form; the chosen procedure must match the project. |
| Site plan | Official survey base, project drawn in, dimensions and distances; check the scale and any certification with the building authority. |
| Floor plan, elevation and section | Show location, lengths, heights, materials and relevant changes clearly. |
| Construction description and product data | Use, construction, roof, colours and technical details of the product actually planned. |
| Signatures and powers of attorney | Check who is authorised to sign and the required form of signature; electronic entry does not automatically replace other signatures or paper documents. |
| Additional proofs | Depending on the project, e.g. noise, energy, drainage, design or structural proofs; clarify which specialists are needed before placing the order. |
The document list of the city of Winterthur and the checklists of the municipality of Köniz show how local requirements are described in practice.
3. Choose attachments to suit the structure
- Pergola and louvred roof: describe the roof design, fixing, side walls and drainage.
- Carport: show access, distances and roof; for solar carports, also coordinate the technical planning.
- Garden shed and pool: document the use, terrain, any technical equipment and drainage.
- Heat pump: provide the unit data and installation location so the required noise certificate can be clarified.
- Solar special cases: clarify protection status, design and additional construction projects at an early stage.
4. Online or on paper? It depends on the municipality.
There is no uniform submission rule across Switzerland. These official examples show why the local submission route must be checked before sending:
- Winterthur: since 1 October 2026, new applications are submitted fully digitally. City announcement.
- Thun: in addition to the eBau entry, the city requires signed paper documents; their receipt is decisive for the submission. City instructions.
- Wil: the city's document list specifies digital submission and three paper copies. City document list.
The local pages link to further official instructions with a review date. Before submitting, check the current version for your location.
5. Document completeness and submission
- Check that forms and plans contain matching information.
- Gather all required signatures, attachments and copies.
- Submit the application through the designated channel and document its receipt.
- Track queries and official deadlines.
If documents are missing, we clarify before the order who will obtain them and what additional costs arise. Our small-structure application package costs CHF 690; authority fees and agreed additional services are extra.
Questions about application documents
Which documents does a building application for small structures need?
Typically you need an application form, a site plan, project drawings and a building description. Depending on the project, signatures, powers of attorney and technical certificates are added. The responsible building authority decides which documents are mandatory.
Can I submit my building application entirely online?
That depends on the municipality and the time of submission. Some offices work fully digitally, others also require paper documents or signed submission receipts. Check the current local submission route before sending.
Do I need to have all plans before I enquire?
No. For our initial assessment, the address, type of structure, dimensions and photos are enough, plus any existing plans or letters. We clarify which further documents and technical certificates your project requires.
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