Who starts the application?
For a new build in Jeddah, first identify the plot and intended use, then authorize a design engineering office through Balady. The official service page says the office accepts the authorization, selects the land survey report and prepares designs and attachments. Sending a deed photo alone does not complete the permit application.
Prepare a clear file before authorization
Gather ownership details, the applicant’s capacity and any survey report number; state whether the project is a villa, apartment building or another use. Share existing permits and drawings. This is a discussion checklist, not a replacement for the attachments Balady requires for your case. Ask the designer to identify missing items in writing before agreeing a delivery date.
How does the application move between parties?
The technical examiner checks designs against Saudi Building Code requirements and may return comments to the designer. The municipality then reviews the application and may request further corrections before design approval. Supervising-office and contractor assignment and applicable insurance steps follow. Design approval is a stage in the process, not by itself permission to start construction.
What should you ask when comments arrive?
Ask for the comments, application reference and reviewing party. Which drawing needs revision, who will respond, and does the change affect another discipline? Keep one coordinated copy of the latest approved set so teams do not work from different versions. This organizes follow-up; it does not imply every correction takes the same time.
Questions to ask before signing
Does the quote cover drawings only or review responses too? What are the designer’s and supervisor’s responsibilities? Who coordinates contractor assignment? What is excluded? Separate design, supervision, surveying, testing, fees and applicable insurance, and record responsibilities clearly. Smart Idea’s office is in Al-Aziziyah, Al-Arbaeen Street, Lulu’at Al-Arbaeen Tower, Office 403, Jeddah.
Before requesting advice
- State the city, proposed use and current construction status.
- Mention any existing permit or survey report without publishing ownership documents publicly.
- Request a case-specific checklist and scope quote, not a universal price or date promise.
Sources reviewed: 7 November 2026. This is general guidance. Service procedures can change; current Balady and relevant-authority requirements for your case remain the reference when applying.
