Abc’s of Quepos’ Zoning Plan

by Quatro Legal Real Estate Team | March 21, 2025 

Access to the full zoning plan here: PLAN  REGULADOR URBANO DE LA CIUDAD DE QUEPOS

How the Plan Affects Property Owners and Developers

Understanding how the zoning plan impacts your property or development project is crucial for ensuring compliance and avoiding legal issues. The ZP provides guidelines for what can and cannot be done within each zoning category, affecting future investments, building permits, and property value. Below are key aspects to consider:

How Do I Know What Zoning Category My Property Falls Under? 

To determine the zoning classification of a property, you need to obtain a Land Use Certificate (Certificado de Uso de Suelo) from the Municipality. This certificate provides detailed information on the zoning designation and permitted activities.

The Land Use Certificate shall not be interpreted as permission to carry out the intended activity or construction. It is solely for informational purposes and does not constitute a license, nor does it grant the right to undertake an activity or construction. Furthermore, it does not obligate any institution to approve the corresponding permits if the requirements established in this Regulation are not met. Additionally, the certificate remains valid indefinitely unless the technical or legal conditions under which it was issued change.

If the Land Use Certificate indicates that the intended use is non-compliant, the applicant must demonstrate to the administration that the activity on the property is legally authorized and feasible or that a previously granted and valid business license exists, in accordance with Article 30 of the Urban Planning Law.

You can apply for the Land Use Certificate, by submitting the following requirements before the Municipality:

• A completed and signed application form.
• A photocopy of the registered property map, full-size, clear, and legible.

The Quepos ZP plays a crucial role in shaping the canton’s future, fostering sustainable development while maintaining a balance between urbanization, environmental preservation, and social well-being.

If you are interested in learning the specifications for each land use such as building density, maximum building height, mandatory setbacks or margins, and the use of green spaces, among others, please feel free to contact María Fernanda Baudrit at mbp@quatro.legal