The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning has issued a strong public warning to property developers and the general public, emphasizing that no construction project should commence without first obtaining a valid building permit and approved structural plans.
In a Public Notice dated 24th July 2026, the Ministry reminded citizens that constructing any building without the required authorization is illegal under the provisions of the National Country Planning Act 2025 and warned that offenders will face severe legal consequences.
According to the Ministry, Section 87(1) of the National Country Planning Act 2025 prohibits any individual from beginning the construction of a house, fence, warehouse, store, shop, extension or any other form of development without first securing the necessary building permit and approved structural plan.
The notice further highlighted that Section 87(2) of the Act prescribes strict penalties for violations. Anyone found guilty of commencing construction without the required permit could, upon conviction, face a fine of not less than NLe 120,000, a prison sentence of not less than two years, or both a fine and imprisonment.
The Ministry stressed that the legislation is intended to ensure orderly physical development, enhance public safety and promote compliance with national planning regulations across the country.
To ensure effective implementation of the law, the Ministry disclosed that it is collaborating with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to strengthen enforcement measures and identify individuals or entities undertaking unauthorized construction activities.
It further warned that the law would be applied without exception and that anyone found violating the provisions of the National Country Planning Act would face the full force of the law.
The Ministry also encouraged all prospective developers, landowners and investors to visit its offices and obtain the necessary approvals before laying foundations or commencing any construction work.
The notice serves as a reminder of Government’s commitment to promoting planned urban development, preventing illegal structures and ensuring that all construction projects comply with established planning and safety standards.
Authorities have urged members of the public to cooperate with the Ministry’s directives by following the appropriate legal procedures before embarking on any development project, noting that compliance will contribute to safer, more sustainable and well-planned communities throughout Sierra Leone.
