In accordance with Section 9 of the North Rhine-Westphalia Monument Protection Act (DSchG NRW), owners of a monument must apply for permission for planned measures.
Approval from the Lower Monument Authority is required for structural interventions on a monument and in its immediate vicinity. This ensures that the Lower Monument Authority weighs up the conservation objectives of the monument against the necessary adaptations to new living and working conditions.
It is important to obtain the listed building permit before work begins. This is also the prerequisite for being able to claim higher tax relief for expenses after completion of the work (so-called "Denkmal-AfA").
Please note that a listed building permit does not replace any other required approval, for example a building permit. Conversely, in the case of a building permit procedure, the listed building permit is also obtained by the building regulations office.
If you wish to deviate from the approved project in the course of execution, you must notify us immediately and seek discussion with the Lower Monument Authority so that the further procedure can be coordinated.
We recommend that you contact us in good time so that we can advise you. We are really happy to do this. Let's make your monument strong for the future together!
Both the consultation and the licensing procedure are free of charge.
The following measures are subject to authorization:
- Structural alterations (e.g. conversions, extensions or modernizations), including to non-historic building components
- Renovation or restoration measures
- Facade modifications (e.g. new windows, painting or insulation)
- Changes to the interior (e.g. new openings, relocation or installation of new walls, installation of bathroom, etc.)
- Demolition measures of any type and size
- Changes of use if they affect the substance or appearance of the monument
Important note:
It is often assumed that only the façade is protected. In most cases, however, the building is fully protected, i.e. both inside and out. This is particularly important for increased tax depreciation, as it means that the installation of new building services, for example, can also be claimed. You can find information on monument registration in the geodata portal or directly from our colleagues at the Lower Monument Authority.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply for a permit?
The application can be submitted informally by post or email to the Lower Monument Authority of the City of Aachen. The application should contain the following information:
- Description and justification of the planned measure
- Plans, sketches or construction drawings, if necessary for understanding
- Photos of the current condition
- Material and color samples, if necessary
- Offers or cost estimates from specialist companies, if already availableWe would also be happy to clarify any unanswered questions during an on-site visit and take a look at the building together.
How does the procedure work?
- The owner submits the application to the monument authority.
- Examination by the monument authority as to whether the planned measure is appropriate for the monument.
- Consultation (participation) of the "Landschaftsverband Rheinland - Amt für Denkmalpflege (LVR -ADR)" with a request for comments.
- Possible additional claims/changes
- Issue of the permit or - if not eligible - rejection of the application.
Processing time
The processing time always depends on the individual case.
We will of course endeavor to process your application promptly, but ask for your understanding that processing may be delayed due to the number of applications received and temporary staff shortages.How long is the permit valid for?
The listed building permit is valid for three years and expires if you have not started the work within this period or have interrupted the work for one year. If you notice a delay in the start of construction, you will need to extend the permit. The extension can be granted for a further year.
I have received a rejection, what now?
If the application is rejected, the owners receive a written justification. The planning can be adjusted and a new application submitted.
If the owners consider the decision to be unjustified, an appeal can be lodged and legal action taken in court.What happens in the event of violations?
Anyone who builds without a permit or in contradiction to the issued permit risks a fine. The administrative offense can be punished with a fine of up to 500,000.00 euros (§ 41 DSchG NRW). As a special regulatory authority, the Lower Monument Authority is authorized to decommission construction measures.
The authority can order the dismantling or restoration of the original condition.