Planning your business

Conceptual Stage

PRTC offers guidance and support to entrepreneurs interested in tourism-related businesses. The Planning and Development Office can provide an assessment of the project concept and help investors make informed choices about the future of their venture. PRTC may also provide “conceptual endorsement” at this stage to facilitate the evolution of the project through the next stages of development.

Related documents:

Application checklist for conceptual design and site location
Instructions to request comments and endorsements before the Office of Planning Development of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company

Permitting Stage

PRTC serves as a facilitator and advisor to the permitting agencies, such as the Office of Permit Management (OGPe) or an autonomous municipality, regarding the characteristics of the project. Business owners may request from PRTC its comments and recommendations beforehand and submit the same to the permitting agencies. The permitting phase also includes the environmental review process (environmental assessment, Environmental Impact Statement, etc.). The extension of the permitting stage will vary depending on the scale and location of the project.

Related documents:

Financial Incentives Stage

Puerto Rico offers competitive program of tax and financial incentives for tourist development projects. This phase can be concurrent with all other stages of development but it is advisable to begin the process as early as possible. An appointment with a PRTC financial incentives officer will provide business owners with the information and documentation needed to request the financial and tax benefits.

Depending on the kind of tourism project developed, the developer or business may be required to register with PRTC Room Tax Division and can request the Tourism Quality Office to inspect the premises and assess the services provided to qualify for PRTC’s promotional endorsement. 

Once inspected and approved by the Tourism Quality Office the project will be added to the promotional efforts of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.