More projects are delayed by permits than by the construction itself. Knowing the industrial construction permits in Mexico — and managing them on time — is what keeps the schedule.
Why permits are the critical path
For a foreign investor, Mexican rules don't resemble those at home. A mishandled permit doesn't cost money — it costs months.
Land use and building license
The land use of the site and the municipal building license are the starting point; verify them before buying the land.
NOM and IMSS / STPS
NOM (official standards) govern safety, electrical, fire and environment; IMSS/STPS regulate social security and labor safety on site.
SEMARNAT (environmental impact)
Environmental impact assessment and SEMARNAT permits must start in parallel with design; neglecting them stalls construction.
CFE (power interconnection)
CFE interconnection usually has the longest lead time and is the critical path; managing it from day one is essential.
Managing them in parallel
A contractor with local experience manages these in parallel with engineering, not in series. That is how CTECP works across its 250+ projects.
