Opening a business in commercial premises is an important step for any entrepreneur. However, before raising the shutters, it is essential to know what licences and procedures are required by the local council, especially if the activity is to be carried out in a city such as Elche, where each type of business has specific requirements. Many self-employed people have doubts when they start, such as what permits they need, when to apply for them, and who can help them prepare them. At Mora Inmobiliaria, we want to offer a clear and simple guide to make the process easier
In most municipalities, including the city of Elche, the activity is started by means of the ‘Responsible Declaration of Opening’. In many cases, this document replaces the old ‘Opening Licence’ and allows the business to start operating as soon as it is submitted, provided that the premises comply with regulations.
In Elche, the Responsible Declaration is submitted electronically. It usually requires:
– A technical or descriptive report prepared by a competent technician.
– Plans of the premises.
– Certificate of compliance with applicable regulations.
– Civil liability insurance.
– Payment of municipal fees.
Depending on the type of business and the size of the premises, a Technical Project or Technical Report will be required. In Elche, a more comprehensive project is required when:
– The premises exceed 100 m².
– The activity is considered ‘qualified’ (bars, restaurants, workshops, health centres, gyms, etc.).
– Renovation work of a certain size is carried out.
For simpler activities in small premises, a reduced technical report is usually sufficient.
If the premises need adaptations — such as interior redistribution, new installations, demolition, smoke vents, or changes to the façade — a Minor or Major Building Permit will be required.
In Elche:
– Minor works: interior changes without affecting the structure.
– Major works: structural interventions, smoke vents, alterations to the façade, or high-impact installations.
It is important to bear in mind that the approval of major works may delay the opening date.
The CCU confirms that the activity is compatible with the municipality’s urban planning regulations. In Elche, it is particularly useful in cases such as:
– Restoration in residential areas.
– Healthcare activities.
– Workshops or businesses with a greater environmental or acoustic impact.
The procedure is carried out online and can take between 10 and 30 days to be resolved.
The procedure is carried out online and can take between 10 and 30 days to be resolved.
Some businesses require additional permits. For example:
– Bars, cafés and restaurants: smoke extraction, soundproofing measures and compliance with health regulations.
– Food shops: specific health and hygiene requirements.
– Beauty salons: ventilation, hygiene, and safety conditions.
– Gyms or sports activities: accessibility, ventilation, and appropriate equipment.
– Industrial or environmentally impactful activities: corresponding environmental licence.
In all cases, a qualified technician must certify regulatory compliance.
In all cases, a qualified technician must certify regulatory compliance.
Once the works or adaptations have been carried out, the technician responsible must issue a Final Works Certificate or equivalent documentation. Installations — such as electricity, air conditioning, gas or fire prevention and control — must be accompanied by reports issued by authorised installers.
These documents are submitted together with the Responsible Declaration or subsequently, depending on the type of activity.
The timeframes may vary depending on the type of activity:
– Harmless activities: the business can open almost immediately after the submission of the Responsible Declaration if the premises comply with the regulations.
– Qualified activities: the timeframes can range from 1 to 4 months.
– Activities involving major works: the time will depend on the construction project, its approval, and the execution of the works.
At Mora Inmobiliaria, we offer advice to entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals looking for commercial premises in Elche. Our goal is to guide you through the characteristics of the space, the usual considerations before starting a business, and the general steps of the opening process. We can also put you in touch with specialised technicians — architects, engineers, or consultants — who will help you prepare the necessary documentation and move forward with the paperwork with confidence. We want you to feel supported from the search for premises to the start of your business.
Many entrepreneurs discover too late that their activity requires specific conditions such as smoke vents, soundproofing, or a specific layout that the premises cannot offer. Getting advice beforehand avoids unnecessary renovations, delays and problems with licences. Choosing the right premises from the outset is key to opening your business in the shortest possible time.
At Mora Inmobiliaria, we are at your disposal to advise you and help you find premises that suit your needs and the type of activity you want to carry out.
