Small scale development

What is a DNO?
The Development Notification Order (DNO) that came into force on June 1, 2001 superseded the General Development Order, 1997. Under the DNO, a considerable number of small-scale interventions and development types (referred to as "permitted development") do not require a formal application for development permission, so long as specific conditions stipulated in the DNO are satisfied.

When should I apply under a DNO?
A few examples of when to apply for a DNO, include:

Washrooms on the roofs of villas, flats and maisonettes;

Structures in backyards;

Satellite dish antennas (notification needed only in scheduled areas);

Swimming pools and ancillary reservoirs and pump rooms;

Replacement of timber balconies (notification needed only in UCAs, ODZ, designated areas);

Air-conditioning units on the exterior (notification needed only in UCAs, ODZ, designated areas).

What fees are due?
For development not requiring notification - nil (except where sanitary approval is required);

Notification not requiring response (NR): Lm5;

Notification requiring response (R): Lm15;

Additional fee where sanitary approval is required (S): Lm10

For a full list of when to apply for a DNO, log on to: http://www.mepa.org.mt/Planning/index.htm?Gdorder.htm&1