Designing a planned Project is a complex process that requires not only technical knowledge, but also knowledge of construction laws, zoning rules and the specifics of industrial and public facilities. In this article we present the successive stages leading from the initial concept to obtaining a building permit .

Each project begins with a thorough identification of the investor’s needs. Among other things, consideration is given to:

• the planned function
• logistical and technological requirements,
• assumed payloads,
• fire protection requirements,
• the method of transport service.

At this stage, we also analyze the locational conditions – including the local zoning plan (MPZP) or the decision on development conditions (WZ). Examination of the provisions of the plan is key to determining the feasibility of developing the plot.

Based on the analysis, a preliminary concept is created. It is determined:

• the functional layout of the object,
• structural solutions (e.g. type of supporting structure, column grid),
• architectural form and elevations,
• the method of land development (roads, maneuvering areas, parking spaces).

A well-developed concept allows to quickly catch potential technical collisions and is the basis for further design work.

Even before the construction project is submitted, the relevant agreements and decisions must be collected, including:

• decision on environmental conditions (if required),
• technical conditions from utility managers (water, sewerage, electricity, gas),
• agreements with the road manager (exit),
• opinion of fire and sanitary expert (if necessary).

Gathering these documents significantly speeds up the process of obtaining a building permit.

The construction project consists of parts:

• architectural (projections, sections, elevations),
• structural (bearing solutions, foundations),
• industry part (sanitary, electrical, fire, HVAC installations),
• land development (road layout, drainage, lighting).

According to current regulations (Construction Law after amendments), the construction project is divided into:

• land development project,
• architectural and construction project,
• technical design (not required for a permit, but necessary for the implementation of the project).

The completed construction project, together with the required attachments, is submitted to the appropriate architectural and construction administration body. The statutory deadline for issuing a construction permit is 65 days, but in practice it can be shorter or longer – depending on the completeness of the documentation and the position of officials.

It is worth noting that the designer can act on behalf of the investor as a proxy, which greatly simplifies the procedure.

The design process is not only the development of drawings, but above all the management of a multi-stage formal and legal process. Cooperation with an experienced design office, which is familiar with the specifics of industrial facilities and public buildings and is able to effectively conduct administrative procedures, significantly increases the chance of obtaining a permit quickly and efficiently implementing the investment.