The construction of simple structures is often considered simpler than other categories of structures, but this does not mean that they do not need to be registered in official state databases. In some cases, registration is mandatory, and in others it is voluntary, but it is still useful from both a legal and practical point of view. In this article, we will discuss when a simple structure must be registered, how to do so, what documents are required, and what the risks are if this is not done.
When must a simple structure be registered?
The registration of simple structures depends on several key aspects: the structure group (I or II), purpose, location, and type of use. Completion of construction and subsequent registration are required when directly stipulated by laws or other legal acts.
The purpose of the structure determines the registration requirement
According to the Construction Law and the Real Estate Register Law, the following structures must be registered:
- used for residential or commercial purposes;
- have internal engineering systems (e.g., water supply, sewerage, electricity);
- are integrated into the use of the plot, i.e., are used permanently or significantly change the intended use of the land.
For example, an 80 m² garden house with electricity and internal equipment must be registered. Meanwhile, a gazebo without engineering systems located in a non-urbanized area does not necessarily have to be registered if it does not meet the conditions listed below.
When is registration not required?
According to the explanation of the VTPSI, some simple structures in Group I (e.g., greenhouses, woodsheds, gazebos) are not subject to registration if they:
- do not have engineering networks;
- are not used for residential or agricultural purposes;
- do not violate the land use regime;
may not be registered. However, the owner has the right to register them voluntarily in order to clarify the ownership situation, especially when planning to sell or bequeath the land.
What is the difference between the registration requirements for Group I and Group II structures?
Simple structures are divided into two groups: I and II. This division has a direct impact not only on design and construction permit issues, but also on registration requirements.
Group I structures: registration is usually not mandatory
Group I simple structures are the smallest structures that do not have complex structures or engineering systems. Typical examples: woodsheds, greenhouses, gazebos, outdoor toilets, or small sheds. According to the laws in force, if these buildings:
- do not exceed the permitted dimensions (usually up to 50 m²);
- do not have utilities;
- are not built in protected areas;
their registration is not mandatory. However, if the land owner wishes, registration may be carried out voluntarily. This is particularly relevant in cases where clarity is sought in real estate transactions or where the structure is to be included in a property valuation.
Group II buildings: registration is usually mandatory
Group II buildings are simple buildings that, although not classified as complex, have a clearer functional purpose and/or more complex structural solutions.
This group often includes:
- garden houses;
- small houses for residential purposes (up to 80 m²);
- auxiliary buildings with utilities;
- garages, if they exceed the criteria applicable to Group I.
For such structures, even if no permit was required for their construction, completion procedures are mandatory, as is registration in the Real Estate Register. Without registration, such a structure will be considered non-existent in official state registers, which can cause many legal and practical problems.
Registration of simple structures
Although simple structures can often be built without a building permit, this does not mean that they never require registration. If such a structure must be entered in the Real Estate Register, this becomes necessary both for the formalization of ownership and for possible future actions, such as sale, inheritance, or reconstruction.
When is registration necessary?
Registration is mandatory when a structure:
- belongs to group II according to the classification in STR 1.01.03:2017;
- is needed as a long-term asset or will be used for commercial purposes;
- must be included in the construction completion or commissioning procedures;
- is included in the list of structures that are considered immovable property.
Registration may also be required in cases where it is directly required by law, even if the structure is not classified as complex.
Where to register a simple structure?
Registration is carried out in the Real Estate Register, which is administered by the State Enterprise Center of Registers. This can be done in several ways: by contacting a notary, using the self-service system of the Center of Registers, or through a surveyor or architect.
What documents are required?
To register a structure, you usually need to submit:
- cadastral measurement file (if such measurements have been performed),
- proof of ownership of the land plot,
- declaration of completion of construction (if it has been completed),
- additionally – the building design and photographs, if requested by the registration authority.
In each case, you should check with the Registry Center, as requirements may vary slightly depending on the type and group of the building.
“Registration is not just a formality. It is a document confirming that the building is legal and can be used for its intended purpose,” says Audronė Petrauskienė, a specialist at the State Territorial Planning and Construction Inspectorate.
How does the registration of a simple building work step by step?
The registration process is not complicated, but it requires a clear sequence of steps. It is particularly important to ensure that all data is accurate, as this determines the success of the registration and the possibility of freely disposing of the building in the future.
1. Completion of construction and submission of declarations
If the structure was built legally, the first step is to fill out a declaration of completion of construction. It is filled out in the Information System for Construction Permits and Declarations (Infostatyba). If no permit was required for construction, this declaration is still necessary if the building is classified as Group II or is intended for registration.
2. Cadastral measurements
After completion of construction, cadastral measurements are carried out, during which a surveyor determines the exact boundaries, outline, height, built-up area, and other parameters of the building. This data is transferred to the cadastral measurement file, which will later be required for registration.
3. Submission of documents to the Register Center
Once all documents have been prepared, they are submitted to the Register Center. This can be done:
- via the self-service website (www.registrucentras.lt),
- directly at a branch office,
- through a notary or an authorized surveyor.
After the documents are submitted, the Registry Center reviews the data and, if everything is in order, registers the building within a few business days.
4. The building becomes a registered real estate object
After registration, the building is officially entered into the Real Estate Register. From now on, it acquires legal value: it can be mortgaged, inherited, sold, or used as an asset in declarations.
Need help?
If you are unsure whether your building needs to be registered, what documents you need to submit, or how to complete the declaration of completion of construction, the stav.lt team is ready to help you. Our specialists advise on all construction and legal registration issues: from the simplest greenhouses to the commissioning of residential houses.
We can:
- Assess whether your building falls into the category of buildings that must be registered;
- Help prepare cadastral measurements and completion declarations;
- Advise on how to use the Infostatybos and Registrų centras systems;
- Provide information on applicable legislation and its application in your case.
Ignorance does not exempt you from your obligations. Make sure your buildings are legal and properly registered. Contact stav.lt and avoid risks in the future.