Skip to main content

The Ísland.is App

Development permit in protected areas

Who Needs to Apply?

You must apply for a permit if you plan to carry out construction work within protected areas.

Conditions and Processing

  • Applications must be submitted by the applicant themselves (not via a proxy).

  • If the project involves more than one area, submit a single joint application with precise locations within each area.

  • Construction may not begin until a permit has been granted.

  • Processing time is up to 30 days from the date all required documents are received.

Fees

  • Fees are charged according to the current fee schedule.

  • If the review exceeds the base fee, an hourly rate will be charged for additional work.

  • Applications submitted within 5 working days before the start of construction may incur an extra fee equivalent to 2 hours of expert work.

What You Need to Prepare

  • Drawings, maps, and site plans of the construction

  • Planning status and environmental assessment (if applicable)

  • Construction start date and estimated duration

  • Detailed description of the construction setup

  • Information about equipment, facilities, and environmental impact

  • Permits from the municipality and landowner, as applicable

Development permit in protected areas