Are plans for building less than 70sqm in Costa Rica

[skippynation]

Hi all, Just joined and my first question on this forum.

We own some land in Guanacaste and plan to build our own house of just less than 70sqm. Is it correct that no plans are need for this sized house. Also will we be able to build a double garage and maids room of 60sqm with out plans? We plan to live off the grid.

Are there any extra large caravans (Static Caravans in the UK) available for purchase there.

All advice and info will be greatly appreciated.:?

[costaricafinca]

Years ago, no plans were required for a small residence, but not anymore and by the time you add a porch necessary to keep heavy rain out of your home and provide shade from the sun, it will expand your ‘footprint’. You will be required to get permits for all projects. Your local municipality wants the money…and by being a ‘gringo’ people [b]will[/b] watch what you are doing.
Even the small prefabricated homes that are popular amongst Costa Ricas require a permit.
Caravans are not seen here with the exception of some travel trailers, people have driven down from the US carrying their belongings. For one thing, they are too hot to live in …
You could purchase a shipping container, but as soon as the wheel are off, a building permit is required for that, too.

[elindermuller]

When I moved to Costa Rica, in 1992, for buildings below 70 square meters, architects plans were not necessary but they (municipality) did want to see a detailed drawing, done by an official drafts person or by the builder if he was able to do it (it had to show details like foundations etc). I did the drawings for cabinas, pools, farm buildings etc. Now the rule says the maximum size for home-made plans is 30 square meters, a small cabina or dog house still fits in there.

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