LAWFUL PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN BELIZE
Building in Belize
In accordance with the Laws of Belize, anyone who wishes to practice as an Architect or offer Architectural Service (regardless of the size of Building is required under the Section 15(1) of the Professional Architects (Registration) Act[2003] to be a registere APAB Architect.
"No person shall engage in the practice of professional architecture or hold himself out as a professional architect unless that person is registered under this Act."
The Law states that proof of the performance of one act in the practice of professional architect is sufficient to establish that the person was engaging in the practice of professional architecture.
Also take note of the relevant penalty set out at section 19(2) of the Act which states as follows:
Any person who, during a period when his registration as a professional architect under this Act is suspended, or who, not being registered as a professional architect, practices professional architecture or any branch of professional architecture, or acts as a partner to any professional architect commits an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding($5000.00) five thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years.
The Association is particularly aware that you currently engage in preparation of architectural plans, designing of buildings, and providing architectural consultancy. We therefore request that you cease and desist from this practice.
Be further notified that should you continue to engage in the unlawful practice of architecture, APAB intends to lodge complaints and take all such prosecution measures as are provided for under the Act.
Your attention hereto is appreciated.
[1] Chapter 326:02, Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2003)
I want to build. What do I do?
In order to build in Belize, you will likely face a bureaucratic maze of governmental regulations. The law requires that an application for a construction permit for any size buildings over 3000 ft.sq should only be presented by a registered architect. It is therefore advisable to contact a registered and licensed architect to guide you through the construction process.
What do architects charge?
All architects in Belize must be licensed and registered by the Association of Professional Architects of Belize (APAB). This governing body along with the Association of Professional Engineers of Belize (APEB) establishes the fee schedule that can be charged by its members. Most fees are based upon a percentage of the value of the construction project. The involvement of a registered architect in a construction project is separated into the five phases described in detail below.
For more information, please review the documents below.
USE OF CONSULTANT'S DRAWINGS, SPECIFICATIONS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS