Activity Licence in Bilbao: How to obtain it step by step?

What is an activity licence?

Before going into detail, it is key to understand what exactly an activity licence is. This permit is essential for any type of business opening in Bilbao and Bizkaia, as it guarantees that the activity complies with safety, town planning and environmental regulations. Whether you want to open a shop, a restaurant or an office, this procedure is compulsory.

Step 1: Pre-feasibility study

The first step before applying for the activity licence Bilbao is to check whether the premises or property you have chosen is suitable for the activity you want to carry out. Not all premises can accommodate any type of business due to urban planning regulations or specific restrictions in areas of Bilbao or Bizkaia.

How do you know if your venue is viable?

At this point, a technical report of an architect can be of great help. This report assesses the characteristics of the premises and its suitability for the planned activity. Making sure that your premises meet all the requirements from the beginning will avoid problems when applying for a licence.

Step 2: Activity project in Bilbao

If the premises is viable, the next step is to prepare a activity project. This document is a detailed technical description of how you are going to carry out your activity in the premises and what modifications (if any) you need to make to comply with the regulations. The activity project must be drawn up and signed by a competent technician, such as an architect, engineer or surveyor.

What is the activity project?

In order to open a business premises, it is indispensable to have a opening licence that accredits that the site complies with the regulations. In order to do so, it is necessary to previously present the activity projectsigned by an accredited professional, usually a expert architect.

The draft activity is composed of the following elements:

• MemoryDetailed explanation of the activity.
• Conditions: Rules and regulations to be complied with.
• Material execution budgetCost estimate of works.
• Security survey and plans of the premises: Layout plans and security measures.
• Description of the activity to be carried outSpecifications of how the business will be developed.
• Justification of compliance with regulationsExplanation of how the premises and the activity comply with local regulations.

Stages of the activity project:

1. Certificate of Urban Development CompatibilityUrban planning justification of the activity, signed by a competent technician.
2. Drafting of the project and technical reportDetailed project preparation.
3. Final installation certificateValidation that the installations comply with the regulations.
4. Payment of municipal taxesDepending on the surface area and type of activity.
5. Visit and inspection by the City CouncilThe City Council verifies that everything is in order.
6. Opening licence completedIf everything is correct, the licence is granted.

When is it necessary to carry out the activity project

If your premises need works to adapt to the regulations, it is essential to carry out the activity project before applying for the works projectThe project can be submitted one month before the start of the activity. If the premises already meet all the conditions or do not require building work, the activity project can be submitted one month before starting the activity.

Cases where it is necessary

The activity project is compulsory for any new business, such as industrial premises, academies, gyms, among others. Professional, craft or artistic activities carried out in the home are exempt, as long as there is no sale or direct attention to the public.

Types of activities according to regulations

• Classified activitiesThese are activities that can be annoying, unhealthy or dangerous, such as bars, industries or certain businesses. These activities require corrective safety, health or environmental measures to be taken.

• Safe activitiesThese are those that do not generate significant nuisance or risk to people or the environment, such as clothes shops or small offices.

Step 3: Applying for the activity licence in Bilbao

With the activity project ready, it's time to submit your application for the activity licence at the Bilbao City Council or the corresponding locality in Bizkaia. Remember to prepare the necessary documents well, as they may vary slightly depending on the municipality.

Basic application documents:

• Technical project.
• Technical report.
• Floor plans.
• Municipal taxDepending on the activity and surface area of the premises.

How long does the activity licence take in Bilbao?

• Resolution time may vary depending on the activity and volume of applications, but is usually between one and three months from the time all documentation is submitted.

Step 4: Refurbishment works

If your premises require works to comply with the regulations, you will need a building permit before obtaining the activity licence. An architect will carry out the building project to ensure that everything is in order.

Step 5: Inspection and opening

Once the formalities and, if necessary, the works have been carried out, the City Council will inspect the premises to confirm that everything complies with the provisions of the activity project. If everything is in order, you will get the activity licence and you can open your business.

Conclusion