Some people here do seem to get away with illegal building, but beware.
Spotter planes are sent out and take note of bits added on to so called sheds.
Only last week a house near here was demolished after the owners had been warned and told not to carry on with the building work.
You mentioned in a previous post I am sure, about being on the edge of a Park with forest area!
A few years ago a couple built their dream house on the edge of a Park. They were told not to, but they carried on
only to loose everything.
I am sure your solicitor has advised you not to go ahead?

I do love posts like this, really only one question to ask yourself, would you do it in Your own country? Probably not, I am guessing, so why do you think you can do it in someone else's?

Oh, and rules may not apply to locals quite so much, they know everyone, have been here for dozens of generations, are related to each other in ways that are unfathomable, AND they are probably farming their land.

But, if you wish to take the risk, best of luck...

I know several locals who proceeded with building work only to be caught out considerably later in the day much to their detriment.  Don't overlook the fact that the authorities are happy to concoct any scheme they can think of to fill the coffers in these difficult times and change or introduce laws and regulations and indulge in back-dating.  Independent and qualified advice is worth paying for even if it is only to put a handle on the level of risk you are potentially taking.  (Look before you leap.)

I think there is an equivalent to the law of prescription here but someone like David Piqué might be able to clarify.

Dreams cost nothing... reality usually comes at a price.

We have not long bought here in the campo & were advised by the local & very lovely David Pique not to think about extending & used the same argument that hhmunroe used, would you do it in the Lake District?
The owner (who was Spanish) who sold to us had to pay back taxes etc on a brick porch on the front of the house (abt 2sqm), & what they also called a porch which is an area covered with a tin roof, it's considered a permenant structure so illegal! He was lucky & didn't have to tear down!
Buy somewhere that has the footprint you need & renovate!

[quote
Buy somewhere that has the footprint you need & renovate!
[/quote]

Thank you for your wise advise,

I will look at some places further south this May and coming back in December for three week search as well.
Cheers