Lagos warns against illegal developments, urges residents to obtain planning permits

Lagos warns against illegal developments, urges residents to obtain planning permits

The Lagos State Government has renewed its call on residents to secure planning permits before embarking on any building or property development, warning that defaulters risk heavy penalties or demolition.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, made the appeal during a public awareness programme held on Thursday in Ojo.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development in collaboration with the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), brought together residents, community leaders, anhd stakeholders from Ojo, Badagry, Iba, Oto-Awori, Amuwo-Odofin, Oriade, and Olorunda districts.

Olumide explained that the sensitisation exercise was part of the state’s continuous efforts to educate the public on the importance and benefits of obtaining proper planning permits.

“Getting a planning permit is not just a formality — it’s the law,” he said.

“It ensures that buildings are structurally sound and safe for habitation. When a building collapses, it’s not only lives that are lost but government resources as well.”

The commissioner noted that having a valid planning permit enhances a property’s market value and credibility, adding that it also facilitates access to bank loans and embassy verification processes.

He warned that property owners who develop without approval would face severe sanctions.

“If a property is built without a permit, even if it meets planning standards, the penalty is four times higher than the normal fee,” he said.

“And if the structure is found to be unsuitable, it could be demolished.”

Olumide further cautioned residents against offering bribes to ministry officials, stressing that government staff had been adequately trained to discharge their duties with integrity.

He assured that once all requirements are met, obtaining a planning permit in Lagos should take no more than 10 working days.

Responding to appeals for an extension of the planning permit amnesty, the commissioner disclosed that a request had been submitted to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for consideration.

The last amnesty, he recalled, ran from May 1 to December 31, 2024.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of Physical Planning, Mr. Oluwole Sotire, emphasised that active public participation was essential to effective urban development.

“Physical planning is about people and their environment. We want residents to understand that enforcing regulations is for their safety and benefit,” he said.

Sotire also addressed concerns over the poor state of roads in Alaba, revealing that a committee had been set up to review past demolitions and propose improvement measures.

He urged residents to support government projects through regular tax payments.

“The government has many plans for development, but funding is limited. Paying taxes ensures we can execute these projects,” he added.