The order to commence work is the administrative resolution that authorizes the physical start of construction work once licenses, technical plans, guarantees, and required documentation have been verified. Without this authorization, starting the work may result in penalties, stoppages, and subsequent legalization problems.
What is a start of work order and what exactly does it authorize?
The start order is the formal act by which the competent authority allows physical execution to begin: earthworks, foundations, structure, and initial installations.
It fulfills three key functions:
Authorize the physical commencement of the work.
Confirm the project's regulatory compliance (urban planning, safety, accessibility, fire protection, environment, and other sector-specific requirements).
Set conditions and deadlines, as well as coordination obligations during implementation.
From the date of issue, the developer may deploy resources and personnel on the site in accordance with the regulations.
We manage construction projects from start to finish.
An architecture firm is responsible for coordinating the technical documentation and procedures necessary to properly begin a construction project.
Standard requirements for obtaining a commencement order
Before issuing the order, management usually requires:
Urban planning license granted and finalized (or equivalent).
Complete technical project signed by competent professionals; approved when applicable.
Payment of related fees and taxes.
Required bonds or guarantees (service replacement, waste management, occupation of public roads).
Additional documentation, as applicable:
Geotechnical study.
Environmental assessment, if applicable.
Health and safety plan.
Waste management study.
Quality control plan.
Civil liability insurance and, if applicable, comprehensive construction insurance.
Official designations:
Project management.
Health and safety coordinator during the execution phase.
Prime contractor.
Preventive measure when applicable.
If any of these elements are missing, the order cannot be issued.
Time between the license and the start of construction
The time between the granting of the license and the start order depends on:
If the file is complete from the outset.
If there are any requirements for correction.
If the municipality automatically generates the order upon verification of all requirements.
It is advisable to review local regulations to find out about maximum deadlines, administrative silence rules, and license validity.
Usual content of the order to commence work
Although it varies by jurisdiction, it typically includes:
Identification of the file (developer, location, cadastral reference).
Designated technical team.
Reference to the license and the approved project (number and date).
Special conditions:
Start and end dates.
Waste management.
Protection of urban elements or trees.
Schedules and noise control.
Signage and fencing.
Health and safety obligations.
Penalty system and grounds for suspension or expiration.
Date and signature of the competent authority.
Consequences of starting without a start order
Starting execution without an order may involve:
Fines and penalties for urban planning violations.
Total or partial stoppage of the work.
Demolition orders for what has been built.
Civil or criminal liability in the event of damage.
Difficulties in registering or legalizing the building.
Increased costs due to adjustments and delays.
Even actions such as setting up booths, fencing, stockpiling, or demolition can be considered material commencement if they are not authorized.
Differences between start orders and other construction documents
| Document | What is it? | What is it for? | Replaces the start command |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building permit | Main building permit | Authorizes the project in general terms | No |
| Stakeout report | Technical document verifying implementation in the field | Confirm that the project is physically feasible. | No |
| Notification of workplace opening | Procedure before the labor authority | Allows the start of activity from an employment perspective | No |
| Health and safety plan | Preventive document | Define security measures in execution | No |
The start order is the final administrative authorization to physically begin the work.
Approximate timeline from licensing to launch
License agreement.
Accreditation of requirements: bonds, insurance, designations, safety plan.
Formal request for a start order.
Issuance of the order.
Siting report and opening notification.
Effective start of work (from the date indicated).
Checklist for requesting the start order
Final license and approved project.
Fees and taxes paid.
Bonds deposited.
Designated contractor.
Civil liability insurance and, if applicable, TRC.
Safety plan approved.
Planned waste management.
Signage and fencing defined.
Checklist for starting work on site
Order book available.
Signed stakeout report.
PPE and signage verified.
Opening communication sent.
Inspection schedule defined.
Deadlines, validity, and extensions
The order usually specifies:
A deadline to start.
A deadline to complete.
If there are justified reasons (significant changes, force majeure, unforeseen findings), an extension may be requested before the deadline.
Prolonged inactivity may result in expiration and require the file to be reactivated.
Modifications during execution
If the project undergoes significant changes (structure, volume, use, or technical conditions), the following may be required:
Approval of project modification.
Security plan update.
Review of bonds or fees if the scope changes.
Any changes must be documented and communicated in accordance with procedure.
Common mistakes that complicate the start of construction
Start auxiliary jobs thinking that they "don't count" as a start.
Do not coordinate the formal appointment of technicians before requesting the order.
Depositing bonds after the deadline.
Do not review specific conditions included in the resolution.
Request an extension once the deadline has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a work commencement order?
This is the document that officially authorizes the start of construction work once the technical and administrative requirements of the project have been met.
Who issues the order to start work?
It is usually issued by the project management team, consisting of the architect and technical architect responsible for the work.
When is the work commencement order signed?
It is signed once the project has been approved, the license granted, and all parties involved in the work are ready to begin.
Is it mandatory to have a building permit?
Yes, it is part of the technical documentation required to legally start a construction project.
Are you thinking about starting a building or construction project?
Author
Cabana Team
Author information