Where owners get caught out
Owners sometimes start renovations under a simple works notice when the project needs a full licence, or replace an old structure with a larger one. On protected land, that can turn a renovation into an infringement with a demolition order.
How we help
| Situation | Our work |
|---|---|
| Before buying | Planning status of every building and the plot |
| Renovation | Which licence is needed and what is allowed |
| Illegal works | Whether and how they can be legalised |
| Infringement files | Responses, appeals, negotiation |
| Demolition orders | Defence before the administration and the courts |
| Habitability | Certificates needed to live in, sell or rent |
Rustic land and the island plan
Most of Menorca outside its towns is rustic land, divided into categories with different levels of protection. New homes are very limited, extensions are restricted and agricultural buildings cannot simply become dwellings. We map what is legal today and what a project could achieve. See country houses in Menorca.
Historic centres
In the old centres of Maó and Ciutadella many buildings are catalogued. Works on façades, roofs and layouts need specific authorisation and respect for the original character. See townhouses and apartments.
Legalising works
Whether a pool, porch or annex can be legalised depends on current rules, the land category and when the works were completed. Some unlawful works can no longer be pursued after a period; on specially protected land, they can. We review the file and the evidence of age with an architect.
Proceedings and appeals
If you receive a stop order, sanction or demolition order, act quickly. We prepare the response and, if necessary, go to the administrative courts. See also civil disputes and coastal property. Menorca.law is part of Castell.law.
An illustrative example
Based on situations we commonly see; not a specific client. An owner near Ferreries replaced a collapsed farm shed with a larger studio and received a stop order. We reviewed the file with an architect, showed which part corresponded to the original building and negotiated a solution that reduced the works to the original volume, closing the proceeding.
Before you sign or pay, ask a lawyer
Send us the document, the listing or a short summary of the problem. A lawyer will tell you what matters, what it could cost you and what to do next.
Questions about planning in Menorca
Can I build a new house on rustic land in Menorca?
Generally only in very limited cases under the island plan. Most rustic plots do not allow new homes.
Can I legalise an old extension?
It depends on the land category, current rules and the age of the works.
How long does a licence take in Menorca?
It varies by municipality and project; plan for it before buying.
What should I do with a stop order?
Stop the works and get advice immediately; deadlines are short.