Planning to renovate or create a new pharmacy ? Great idea! But before bringing out the tools and architectural plans, there’s one unavoidable hurdle to clear: the paperwork. Between planning permission, prior declarations and other regulatory approvals, the process can quickly start to feel like an administrative marathon full of obstacles.
Fortunately, there’s a simple way to avoid the headache: surround yourself with the right experts. At ECOOR, we make sure you can stay focused on running your pharmacy while we take care of the rest. For hassle-free administrative management of your pharmacy fit-out project, follow our guide!
Pharmacy Fit-Out Works: What Are the Legal Requirements?
First, you need to determine which type of authorisation is required for your project :
Prior Declaration of Works
If you are making changes to the exterior appearance of your pharmacy — such as installing new signage, altering the façade or extending the premises by up to 20 m² — this formality is required. It allows the local authority to check that your project complies with local planning regulations.
Processing time : approximately 1 month.
Building Permit
A building permit is required for larger-scale works, such as an extension of more than 20 m², a change of use of the premises, or the construction of a new establishment.
Processing time : approximately 2 to 3 months, depending on the complexity of the project.
Accessibility and Fire Safety Authorisation
Your pharmacy must comply with accessibility requirements for people with reduced mobility (PRM), as well as applicable fire safety regulations. The application must be submitted to the local authority or prefecture, with support from a specialist engineering consultancy.
Processing time : approximately 2 to 5 months, depending on the project.
Consultation with the Architectes des Bâtiments de France (ABF)
If your pharmacy is located within a protected area, the ABF must approve the project. This review may cover elements such as the façade, the materials used and the overall visual impact of the proposed works.
Processing time : varies depending on the project and may take several months.
Our first piece of advice ? Check with your local authority early on to understand any specific requirements that may apply in your area.
Administrative Management of Pharmacy Fit-Out Projects :
Our 5 Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls
1. Plan Ahead for Processing Times (and Build in Some Contingency)
Administrative procedures are not exactly known for moving quickly. To avoid unwelcome surprises, submit your applications well in advance and build some contingency into your project schedule. A delay in obtaining approval can quickly push the entire project off track!
2. Prepare a Complete and Accurate Application
An incorrectly completed, incomplete or unclear application can lead to unnecessary back-and-forth with the authorities. Here’s the essential checklist:
- Detailed location plan and site plan
- Description of the proposed works
- Photographs of the existing site
- Details of the materials and colours to be used
- Impact assessment where required (accessibility, environmental considerations, etc.)
3. Stay Up to Date with Local Regulations
Each local authority may have its own specific requirements, covering everything from signage dimensions and permitted colours to architectural guidelines. Before finalising your project, check with the local planning department to avoid any unwelcome surprises when submitting your application.
4. Get Support from the Right Experts
Architects, engineering consultancies and general contractors understand the complexities of local regulations and can help prepare and optimise your application to streamline the approval process.
5. Centralise Administrative Management
Between local authorities, the prefecture, the Architectes des Bâtiments de France (ABF) and the various engineering consultancies, managing the entire process yourself can quickly become a headache. Having a single point of contact, such as ECOOR, means you don’t have to juggle multiple procedures and stakeholders, while ensuring efficient follow-up throughout the approval process.
ECOOR : Your Ally Against the Paperwork!
You certainly didn’t become a pharmacist to spend your time filling out Cerfa forms and chasing applications with local authorities… The good news? At ECOOR, we know this side of the process inside out — and we take care of it for you!
ECOOR manages all the administrative procedures associated with your fit-out project. Planning applications, approvals, regulatory compliance… We handle it all, so you can stay focused on running your pharmacy, without the administrative headache.
Stress-Free Administrative Management for Your Pharmacy Fit-Out Project ? It’s Possible !
Carrying out work in a pharmacy is already challenging enough. Add a mountain of paperwork on top, and it quickly becomes the perfect recipe for unnecessary stress. So why not delegate it ?
With ECOOR Pharma, your project moves forward with complete peace of mind, while meeting regulatory requirements and agreed deadlines. One point of contact, end-to-end project management and, above all, no administrative headaches.
