We are thinking about buying ruins of XVIII century hacienda near Motul. This place is abandoned and in total ruins. If we buy it, and attempt to resurrect it, and bring it back to life. Are there any special permits, requirements or governmental procedures regarding reconstruction of destroyed historical buildings in Yucatan?
Any information on this subject will be greatly appreciated.
thanks,
bob.

Unfortunately there are not specific laws in order to protect old haciendas in Mexico. The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), is the one in charge for the protection of mexico's cultural heritage (including architecture), but this institute only concern about all the architeture build before the 20th century, and, also, it denpendes on architecture genre, for instance, cult, housing, military, administration, etc. The hacienda's belong to industrial architecture, a type of architecute without any kind of protection acording the mexican's laws.

But, you must check Motul`s law (if the hacienda belongs to this municipality) in order to find any specific regulation concerning on this kind of buildings. I suggest, also, to contact some of the INAH´s Architect´s, in Mérida, and talk with him (or her) about your plan, they can help you to achieve a better job.

I hope i have been useful,

regards.