JapanCan the purpose of use be changed?
Yes, the purpose of use can be changed in Japan, but only with prior approval from the relevant administrative authority and under strict conditions set by law.
What the Law Says
Japanese law strictly regulates changes to the purpose of use for land and buildings to ensure orderly urban development and public safety.
Under the City Planning Act, any change in the purpose of use of a building or land that affects city planning zones requires permission from the governor of the prefecture or the mayor of a designated city.
The Building Standards Act further requires notification or approval depending on whether the new use falls under a different usage classification — especially if it involves higher risk (e.g., changing a residence to a hotel or factory).
If the change triggers a 'change of use' as defined in Article 43 of the Building Standards Act, the owner must submit plans and obtain confirmation from the building official before implementation.
Statutory TextNo person shall change the use of a building to one requiring different structural standards without prior confirmation by the building official.
— Building Standards Act, s. 43 — Change of Use
Statutory TextWhere a person intends to change the use of land or a building in a city planning area, he/she must notify the governor or mayor at least thirty days prior to such change.
— City Planning Act, s. 52 — Notification of Change of Use
What to Do
Confirm whether the new use falls under a different usage classification in the Building Standards Act Enforcement Order.
Submit a notification to the local municipal office at least 30 days before the intended change (City Planning Act, s. 52).
If structural or safety standards differ, apply for building confirmation under Article 43 of the Building Standards Act.
Retain all approval documents for at least 10 years as required by administrative record-keeping rules.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.