The number of building permits in Cyprus increased by 8.6% during the period from January to August 2024, according to the Statistical Service. However, a significant 59.3% drop was recorded in August 2024 compared to August 2023, primarily due to issues with the new integrated information system “Ippodamos.”

During the first eight months of 2024, a total of 5,062 building permits were issued, compared to 4,662 in the same period of 2023.

The Statistical Service reported a 16.3% rise in the total value of these permits and an 18.0% increase in total area. The number of residential units also rose by 16.2%.

By project category, the number of permits issued for:

• Residential Buildings grew by 5.3%.

• Non-Residential Buildings surged by 29%.

• Civil Engineering Projects increased by 13%.

• Permits for plot divisions declined by 4.3%, while permits for road construction grew by 8.8%.

In August 2024, only 183 building permits were issued, compared to 450 in August 2023, marking a sharp annual decline of 59.3%.

These permits accounted for a total value of €87.4 million and a total area of 66,200 square meters, with 323 residential units planned for construction.

The decline in August is largely attributed to the transition of building permit responsibilities from municipalities and district administrations to the newly established District Self-Governance Organizations (DSOs) as of July 1, 2024. Additionally, operational issues with the “Ippodamos” integrated information system significantly impacted the permit issuance process.