By David Akinmola
The Lagos State Government has announced a fresh 61-day amnesty window for owners and developers of existing buildings constructed without valid planning permits to regularize their properties.
The initiative, reintroduced by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), aims to encourage compliance, improve urban planning data, and enhance safety standards across the state. The amnesty runs from October 21 to December 20, 2025, giving property owners a limited opportunity to obtain necessary approvals without facing the usual penalties.
Speaking on the development, the General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinaike, said the move reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development and responsible building practices.
“This initiative is designed to bring more properties into the legal framework of the state’s physical planning system. It gives owners of buildings constructed without proper permits a chance to do the right thing and avoid future sanctions,” he said.
Osinaike explained that the amnesty covers all existing structures in Lagos built without planning approval, provided they meet safety and environmental standards. However, the offer does not extend to buildings erected on government setbacks, drainage alignments, or under high-tension cables.
Property owners who take advantage of the window are expected to submit as-built drawings and relevant documents to LASPPPA offices across the state for assessment and approval.
The government noted that the policy is part of broader reforms aimed at promoting orderly urban growth, improving disaster management, and ensuring the integrity of Lagos’ built environment.
Urban development experts say the renewed amnesty could boost state revenue and bring thousands of unapproved structures into the formal system, reducing the risks of building collapse and unregulated expansion.
Osinaike, however, warned that strict enforcement would resume immediately after the amnesty period lapses.
“After December 20, the Authority will intensify monitoring and take decisive action against defaulters. This is a fair opportunity for everyone to comply,” he emphasised.
The state government urged property owners, estate developers, and professionals in the built environment to take advantage of the window and ensure their buildings meet planning standards to avoid demolition or legal sanctions.
