Commercial Renovation Permits Singapore
Complete 2026 guide to all permits and approvals required for commercial renovation projects in Singapore. Navigate authority requirements efficiently.
Key Authorities & Permits
BCA
Building Plans
2-4 weeks
SCDF
Fire Safety
1-3 weeks
NEA
F&B/Environment
2-4 weeks
MCST
Building Approval
1-2 weeks
Required Permits by Project Type
Office Renovation Permits
Always Required
- Management Corporation (MCST) approval
- Renovation permit from building management
- Insurance coverage verification
Conditional Requirements
- BCA approval (if structural changes)
- SCDF clearance (if fire safety affected)
- Professional engineer sign-off (if MEP changes)
Retail Store Permits
Standard Requirements
- MCST approval for fitout works
- Signage permits from URA/building management
- Change of use permit (if applicable)
Additional Permits
- BCA approval (if shopfront changes)
- NEA permits (if food/beverage sales)
- Trade license from respective authorities
Restaurant/F&B Permits
Mandatory Requirements
- NEA food establishment license
- SCDF fire safety clearance
- BCA building plan approval
- MCST approval
Specialized Permits
- Liquor license from SPF (if applicable)
- Entertainment license from SPF
- Outdoor dining permit from respective authority
- Exhaust system approval from NEA
Medical/Clinic Permits
Healthcare Specific
- MOH clinic license
- NEA approval for specialized facilities
- BCA compliance for accessibility
- SCDF fire safety clearance
Equipment & Systems
- Medical equipment installation permits
- Radiation safety approval (if applicable)
- Waste management system approval
- Specialized HVAC system clearance
Authority Requirements Breakdown
Building & Construction Authority (BCA)
When Required
- Structural modifications
- Change of use applications
- Addition & alteration works
- Fire safety system changes
- Accessibility modifications
Required Documents
- Architectural drawings
- Structural calculations
- MEP drawings
- QP endorsement
- Form A application
Timeline: 2-6 weeks
Processing time depends on complexity. Simple A&A works: 2-3 weeks. Complex projects: 4-6 weeks.
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF)
Fire Safety Clearance
- Fire compartmentation changes
- Exit route modifications
- Fire protection system alterations
- Kitchen hood & suppression systems
- Emergency evacuation plans
Submission Requirements
- Fire safety plans
- System specifications
- Installation certificates
- Testing & commissioning reports
- Maintenance schedules
Timeline: 1-3 weeks
Standard fire safety clearance takes 1-2 weeks. Complex systems may require 3-4 weeks.
National Environment Agency (NEA)
F&B Establishments
- Food establishment license
- Kitchen ventilation systems
- Grease trap installations
- Food handler certifications
- Waste management plans
Environmental Compliance
- Air quality monitoring
- Noise level assessments
- Water discharge permits
- Hazardous material handling
- Environmental impact studies
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Food establishment licenses: 2-3 weeks. Environmental permits may take 3-4 weeks.
Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)
Planning Permissions
- Change of use applications
- Plot ratio modifications
- Signage permits
- Outdoor dining approvals
- Conservation building works
Development Control
- Zoning compliance checks
- Building height restrictions
- Setback requirements
- Parking provision compliance
- Green building requirements
Timeline: 3-8 weeks
Simple applications: 3-4 weeks. Complex planning permissions: 6-8 weeks.
Permit Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Process
Pre-Application (1-2 weeks)
- Conduct feasibility study
- Engage qualified professionals (QP, engineers)
- Prepare preliminary designs
- Identify all required permits
Documentation (1-3 weeks)
- Prepare detailed drawings and specifications
- Compile all required documents
- Obtain QP endorsements
- Review compliance with regulations
Submission (1 week)
- Submit applications to relevant authorities
- Pay required fees
- Track application status
- Respond to queries promptly
Review & Approval (2-6 weeks)
- Authority technical review
- Site inspections (if required)
- Address compliance issues
- Receive written approvals
Commencement (1 week)
- Notify authorities of commencement
- Display permits on site
- Schedule inspection milestones
- Begin construction works
Common Challenges & Solutions
Frequent Issues
Incomplete Documentation
Missing drawings, calculations, or professional endorsements causing delays.
Code Non-Compliance
Design violations requiring significant modifications and resubmissions.
Change of Use Complications
Converting between business types triggering multiple authority requirements.
Coordination Between Authorities
Conflicting requirements from different agencies requiring negotiation.
Best Practices
Early Authority Consultation
Consult relevant authorities during design phase to avoid compliance issues.
Professional Project Management
Engage experienced QPs familiar with local permit processes.
Concurrent Submissions
Submit to multiple authorities simultaneously where possible to reduce timeline.
Compliance Documentation
Maintain detailed records and ensure all submissions are complete and accurate.
Permit Fees & Costs
Typical Permit Cost Breakdown
Authority Fees
Professional Fees
Total Typical Range
Simple Office Renovation
S$3,000-8,000
Retail Store Fitout
S$5,000-15,000
Restaurant/F&B
S$8,000-25,000
Navigate Permits with Expert Help
Connect with contractors experienced in Singapore permit processes
Get Expert AssistancePermit FAQs
How long does the permit process take for commercial renovation?
Permit timelines vary by project complexity: Simple office renovations: 3-6 weeks total. Retail fitouts: 4-8 weeks. Restaurant/F&B: 6-12 weeks due to multiple authority requirements.
Can I start renovation before getting all permits?
No, you must obtain all required permits before commencing construction. However, you can proceed with permit-free activities like furniture installation and equipment setup.
What happens if I renovate without proper permits?
Unauthorized works may result in stop-work orders, fines, requirements to demolish non-compliant works, and difficulties with insurance claims or property sales.
Do I need separate permits for each authority?
Yes, each authority (BCA, SCDF, NEA, etc.) requires separate applications. However, experienced professionals can coordinate submissions to minimize delays.
How much should I budget for permits and professional fees?
Budget 3-5% of total renovation cost for permits and professional fees. Simple projects: S$3,000-8,000. Complex projects: S$8,000-25,000+.