Prices and Budgets for Obtaining an Opening License
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for low-risk activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts can vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the space and the activity.
The amounts are indicative and come from the original imported guide. The final budget depends on the scope, materials, and previous condition of the space.
Service Levels and Pricing
Compare the different options available based on your budget and needs to process your business license.
Basic
Ideal for low-risk activities with simple procedures. Includes advice on required documentation and basic management with the City Council.
Standard
The most comprehensive option for standard commercial and industrial activities. Includes complete technical advice, coordination with public agencies, and full process management.
Premium
Complete service for complex activities or special requirements. Includes expert advice, management with multiple authorities, and full support until license approval.
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Opening license prices
See what homeowners usually pay for the most common tasks. Use these ranges to fine-tune your scope and avoid missing key items in your budget.
Opening license for harmless activity
Opening license for bar or restaurant
Opening license for industrial warehouse
Opening license for a business
Steps followed for the granting of an opening license with Reformia
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for harmless activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts may vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the premises and the activity.
1. Feasibility study of the premises project
The first step is the preparation of a technical report for the opening license of the premises. This document must be prepared by an architect, technical architect or technical engineer and its objective is to study the feasibility of the project, assessing aspects such as facilities, plans, dimensions and, very especially, the regulations governing the activity of the premises, which may vary depending on whether it is, for example, the opening license for a restaurant or for a language school.
2. Renovations and changes in commercial premises
If the municipality approves the activity to be carried out and the premises are urbanistically suitable, some renovations may be necessary to adapt it to the use it will be put to.
3. Management of the opening license
Once everything is ready, the last step will be to submit all the documentation depending on the type of activity to be carried out:
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for harmless activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts may vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the premises and the activity.
What is usually included in a quote
Each professional may structure quotes differently, but most project budgets follow this logic.
Typically included
Often not included
Steps to obtain an opening license
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for harmless activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts may vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the premises and the activity.
1. Verify the business activity classification
First, determine your business classification according to local regulations, as this directly impacts the final cost of your opening license. This classification defines your activity type and determines if your budget falls in the basic range (800 € – 1,200 €) or higher. Contact your local municipality to confirm the exact category.
2. Check fees at the local city council
Contact your local municipality directly to learn about administrative fees applicable to your business type. Costs vary significantly based on classification and location, ranging from 800 € to 4,500 € depending on complexity level. Request a detailed budget to avoid surprises later.
3. Prepare required documentation for the premises
Gather all required documentation: building plans, property certificate or lease agreement, technical project, and identification documents. This step is crucial to avoid rejections and delays that could increase costs. Complete documentation accelerates the path to obtaining your opening license.
4. Apply for license with the municipal administration
Formally submit your opening license application to the municipality with all prepared documentation. The application cost is included in your total budget, which ranges from 1,500 € to 2,500 € for the standard level. Keep all receipts and case numbers for tracking purposes.
What can change your final price
Even similar projects can end with different budgets. These are the factors that most often push costs up or down.
Type of business activity
Low-risk activities (offices, medical practices) have lower costs (1,000€), while activities such as bars, restaurants, or food handling businesses can exceed 2,000€ due to additional health and safety requirements.
Municipal regulations and local fees
Each municipality sets its own administrative fees and specific procedures, which can significantly vary the final budget between different municipalities in the same region.
Property size and characteristics
Larger premises or those with complex installations (professional kitchen, ventilation systems, storage areas) require more thorough inspections and additional documentation, increasing costs.
Certifications and additional permits
Some businesses require safety certificates, labor risk assessments, or data protection permits, which add variable costs depending on the specific activity.
Types of opening licenses
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for harmless activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts may vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the premises and the activity.
Harmless activities are those that do not cause any disturbance to property or people of any kind, and which also have no environmental impact nor entail health problems. This would be the case, for example, of businesses such as clothing stores or offices.
Legal regulations on opening licenses
The average cost of opening licenses can be around 1,000 € for harmless activities and around 2,000 € for other types of activities. However, these amounts may vary depending on the fees applied by each municipality and the characteristics of both the premises and the activity.
The procedure for requesting an opening license for this type of activity is usually more agile and faster as a technical project is not mandatory. However, it will be necessary to have a technical report prepared by a qualified professional (architect, technical architect or engineer) that includes location, floor plan and section drawings of the premises.
In this type of activity, the most common approach is to opt for the submission of a declaration of responsibility, whose resolution is practically immediate, although subsequently a municipal technician will visit the premises to verify that everything complies with regulations. However, this type of express license is limited to premises of less than 300 m² of sales area.
Each autonomous community and each municipality can publish their own laws and ordinances that regulate certain aspects and requirements for obtaining opening licenses. However, there are also regulations applicable at the national level.
The Sustainable Economy Law, of March 4, 2011, eliminated the opening license for most activities, with some exceptions. Only prior notification to the municipality was necessary, which would then verify it later. Requested by Brussels, it aimed to eliminate bureaucracy, but left administrative procedures and activity records in the hands of the municipality. This measure did not have the desired effect.
But it was Royal Decree-Law 19/2012 of May 25 on Urgent Measures for the Liberalization of Commerce that introduced important innovations, specifically, express licenses, so that certain premises (those with less than 300 m²) are not obligated to obtain an opening license. It is sufficient to submit a declaration of responsibility and pay the corresponding fees. Administrative control to verify compliance with regulations will be carried out afterwards.
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Retail & Assembly
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Energy Suppliers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals and unit pricing where relevant.
Construction
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Installers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Maintenance
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Moving Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Minor Works
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Renovations
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Technical Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Retail & Assembly
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to obtain an opening license in Spain?
The average cost of an opening license ranges between 1,000 € and 2,000 €, depending on the type of activity. For low-risk or harmless activities, the price typically hovers around 1,000 €, while more complex activities can reach 2,000 € or more. It's important to note that each municipality applies its own fees, so it's advisable to request a personalized quote from your local town hall.
What does an opening license budget include?
The budget typically covers municipal license fees, administrative management with the town hall, documentation processing, and in some cases, technical inspections of the premises. It may also include additional services such as regulatory advice, plan adaptation, or coordination with other government agencies. Costs vary depending on project complexity and the specific characteristics of the premises and commercial activity.
How long does it take to obtain an opening license?
The average timeframe for obtaining an opening license is 30 to 60 days from submission of a complete application. However, this time can vary significantly depending on the municipality's workload and activity complexity. In some municipalities it can take up to 3 months if additional inspections or documentation adjustments are required.
Do I need to hire a specialized technician to obtain an opening license?
Although it's not legally mandatory, it's highly recommended to hire a specialized technician or management firm to process your opening license. A professional understands the specific requirements of your municipality, avoids administrative errors that could delay the process, and ensures that all technical documentation complies with current regulations. The cost of these services is typically included in the total license budget.
What regulations must I comply with to obtain an opening license?
You must comply with your local municipality's regulations, as well as regulations on occupational safety, fire protection, accessibility for people with disabilities, and health standards depending on your activity type. You may also need to obtain complementary licenses such as activity or electrical installation permits if required. A specialized technician will advise you on all specific regulations that apply to your business.
Got more questions? Contact us!
Got more questions? Contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to obtain an opening license in Spain?
The average cost of an opening license ranges between 1,000 € and 2,000 €, depending on the type of activity. For low-risk or harmless activities, the price typically hovers around 1,000 €, while more complex activities can reach 2,000 € or more. It's important to note that each municipality applies its own fees, so it's advisable to request a personalized quote from your local town hall.
What does an opening license budget include?
The budget typically covers municipal license fees, administrative management with the town hall, documentation processing, and in some cases, technical inspections of the premises. It may also include additional services such as regulatory advice, plan adaptation, or coordination with other government agencies. Costs vary depending on project complexity and the specific characteristics of the premises and commercial activity.
How long does it take to obtain an opening license?
The average timeframe for obtaining an opening license is 30 to 60 days from submission of a complete application. However, this time can vary significantly depending on the municipality's workload and activity complexity. In some municipalities it can take up to 3 months if additional inspections or documentation adjustments are required.
Do I need to hire a specialized technician to obtain an opening license?
Although it's not legally mandatory, it's highly recommended to hire a specialized technician or management firm to process your opening license. A professional understands the specific requirements of your municipality, avoids administrative errors that could delay the process, and ensures that all technical documentation complies with current regulations. The cost of these services is typically included in the total license budget.
What regulations must I comply with to obtain an opening license?
You must comply with your local municipality's regulations, as well as regulations on occupational safety, fire protection, accessibility for people with disabilities, and health standards depending on your activity type. You may also need to obtain complementary licenses such as activity or electrical installation permits if required. A specialized technician will advise you on all specific regulations that apply to your business.