How to check a building permit and occupancy permit in Jordan
General information only, not legal, financial, tax or government advice. Rules, fees and prices change: check the current position with a lawyer and the relevant government office before you rely on it.
The short answer
Before you buy, ask the seller for the building permit and the occupancy permit, and confirm them with the municipality that issued them; in Amman that is Greater Amman Municipality1. They show that the building and its floors were licensed. An apartment added without a licence, such as an extra floor, can cause problems with registration, utilities and resale.
The papers and what they show
- Building permit (رخصة البناء): the municipality’s approval to build, with the licensed floors and areas.
- Occupancy permit (إذن الإشغال): confirms the finished building may be used as licensed.
- Approved plans: show the licensed area of each floor and unit.
- Title deed (سند التسجيل) from the Department of Lands and Survey: shows the registered owner and the registered apartment.
How to check
- Ask the seller or developer for copies of the permits and approved plans.
- Confirm them with the municipality’s building-licence department or its e-services1.
- Compare the apartment you are buying (floor, area) with what the permit and the title deed show.
- Ask a licensed engineer or valuer to look if the building has additions.
Clearances before a sale
To register a sale, the Department of Lands and Survey asks for clearances (براءات ذمة), such as the municipality’s clearance for property tax (musaqafat)2. Ask the seller to get them before the transfer appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I check a building permit online?
Greater Amman Municipality offers e-services1, but the services available change. If you cannot find the permit online, ask the licensing department of the municipality directly.
What if the apartment is not in the permit?
An apartment or floor that is not licensed may be hard to register, connect to utilities or sell. Ask a lawyer before you pay anything.
Who issues building permits outside Amman?
The local municipality for the area, or the relevant planning authority in special zones such as Aqaba.
Sources
- Greater Amman Municipality: e-services and building-licence information (checked 31 October 2026)
- Department of Lands and Survey: frequently asked questions (clearances needed for a sale) (checked 31 October 2026)
This page was last reviewed on 31 October 2026.
General information only, not legal, financial, tax or government advice. Rules, fees and prices change: check the current position with a lawyer and the relevant government office before you rely on it.