Best Project Finance Lawyers in Kfar Saba

1. About Project Finance Law in Kfar Saba, Israel

Project finance in Kfar Saba, Israel typically involves creating a single purpose vehicle (SPV) to own and operate a specific infrastructure or large-scale development project. The lender's security is primarily tied to project cash flows, not the sponsor’s general assets. In practice, deals combine corporate structure, contract law, planning permissions, and tax considerations.

In Israel, SPVs are commonly formed under the national Companies Law to ensure clear governance and liability separation. Local practice also relies on robust EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) and O&M (operation and maintenance) agreements to allocate construction, performance, and risk. Because Kfar Saba sits within Israel’s central region, projects often require planning approvals from the Planning and Building Authority and alignment with national infrastructure policy.

Israel’s project finance ecosystem relies on SPVs, non-recourse debt, and strong off-take and project-level contracts to attract banks and ECAs.

Source note: For official guidance on tax treatment and regulatory requirements, see the Israel Tax Authority and Planning and Building Authority resources.

Practical guidance for residents of Kfar Saba includes working with a local solicitor who understands municipal processes and timing for permits, as well as a project finance attorney who can coordinate cross-border lenders and Israeli regulators. Close coordination with local authorities can help prevent delays that are common in infrastructure developments near urban centers.

For further context on legal pathways and government roles in Israel, see government and official statistics sources.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Structuring an SPV for a Kfar Saba infrastructure project - A local lawyer helps determine whether to form an Israeli company or an international joint venture, align shareholding, and establish governance. This reduces risk in lender due diligence and securities filings.

• Negotiating EPC and O&M contracts - A solicitor negotiates performance guarantees, penalties for delays, and impairment risks. In Kfar Saba scale projects, long-term maintenance contracts are critical to cash flow reliability.

• Securing multi-source financing - Projects funded by banks, ECAs, and multilateral lenders require precise intercreditor agreements and cross-border tax planning. Local counsel coordinates with lenders and ensures regulatory compliance.

• Regulatory approvals and planning - Infrastructure plans need Planning and Building Authority permits, zoning confirmations, and environmental clearances that a lawyer can manage to avoid delays.

• Tax structuring and incentives - Project finance often benefits from Israel’s investment incentives and VAT considerations. A local attorney helps optimize the SPV’s tax position while staying compliant.

• Cross-border risk management - If foreign investment is involved, counsel coordinates currency risk, repatriation rules, and international arbitration provisions within project contracts.

3. Local Laws Overview

Companies Law, 1999 (5759-1999)

This law governs corporate formation, governance, and liability for Israeli companies used as SPVs in project finance. It covers director duties, capital structure, share transfers, and the framework for corporate decision-making. SPVs in Kfar Saba rely on these provisions to establish a clear, accountable governance model for lenders and sponsors.

Recent considerations include updates to corporate governance requirements for public and private companies and enhanced disclosure obligations in certain configurations. Consult updated English and Hebrew texts via official government resources to ensure current compliance.

Related resource: Israel’s national authorities provide official guidance on corporate law and registration processes. Ministry of Justice - Department of Justice

Planning and Building Law, 1965

This is the core framework for planning, zoning, and building permits for urban development and infrastructure projects in Israel, including Kfar Saba. Projects must obtain permits before construction begins, and the law sets timelines for approvals and appeal processes. It is essential for project finance to align procurement and construction milestones with permitting requirements.

Amendments over the years have refined environmental impact assessments, land-use planning, and public participation rules. A local practitioner will help map permitting milestones to the project schedule and lender covenants.

Official guidance: Planning and Building Authority resources provide guidance on permit timelines and compliance. Planning and Building Authority

Public-Private Partnerships Law, 2012 (and related regulations)

This framework facilitates procurement of infrastructure projects through partnerships between the public sector and private sector entities. It provides the mechanism for tendering, risk allocation, and contract structures used in many Israeli PPPs, including projects in central districts near Tel Aviv and surrounding towns like Kfar Saba. It is frequently relied upon to secure long-term financing and to formalize performance guarantees and payment mechanisms.

Israel has continued to refine PPP regulations and guidelines to improve procurement efficiency, project risk allocation, and lender comfort. Local counsel helps interpret PPP directives, prepare bid documentation, and negotiate concession agreements that align with lender requirements.

Official reference: Public-Private Partnerships information is available through government portals and Knesset resources. Public-Private Partnerships - Government portal

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is project finance in Israel and how is it used?

Project finance isolates a single project under an SPV with debt secured by project cash flows. It is common for infrastructure, energy, and water projects in Israel, including those near Kfar Saba.

How do I start a project finance deal in Kfar Saba?

Identify the project’s scope, form an SPV, secure initial permits, and engage a local project finance attorney to draft term sheets with lenders.

What is an SPV and why is it used?

A special purpose vehicle is a legally separate entity that limits liability and concentrates project risks and rewards in one structure.

How much does hiring a project finance lawyer cost in Israel?

Costs vary by project size and complexity, but expect a fee range based on hours and milestone-based milestones. Request a detailed engagement letter early.

How long does a typical Israeli project finance deal take to close?

Small to mid-size deals may close in 3 to 6 months; larger infrastructure projects can extend to 9 to 18 months depending on approvals and lender due diligence.

Do I need a local lawyer in Kfar Saba?

Yes, local counsel understands municipal processes, permit timing, and language nuances in negotiations with Israeli entities.

What is the difference between a solicitor and an attorney in Israel?

In Israel, the common term is attorney (advocate). A local solicitor is often used interchangeably in private practice, especially for civil and corporate matters.

How do I choose a project finance lawyer in Israel?

Look for experience with SPVs, EPC/O&M contracts, lender negotiations, and familiarity with local permit regimes and tax rules.

Is government permitting required before financing can close?

Yes, most infrastructure projects require timely planning and environmental approvals before loan drawdowns occur.

Can foreign lenders participate in Israeli project finance deals?

Yes, many projects include international banks and ECAs. You will need cross-border tax, exchange, and regulatory planning.

Should I consider tax incentives or exemptions for my project?

Investment incentives and VAT considerations may apply, depending on project type and location. A local tax attorney can optimize the structure.

5. Additional Resources

• Israel Tax Authority - Official guidance on tax treatment for project finance, cross-border investments, and VAT. Tax Authority - English page

• Planning and Building Authority - Central authority for planning, zoning, and building permits in Israel. Planning and Building Authority

• Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) - Data on infrastructure investment, construction activity, and related indicators. CBS - Israel Central Bureau of Statistics

6. Next Steps

1. Define the project scope and gather all key documents, including feasibility studies, land rights, and environmental assessments. Timeline: 1-2 weeks.
2. Map the SPV structure and determine the optimal corporate form under the Companies Law. Timeline: 2-4 weeks.
3. Identify potential lenders and engage a local project finance attorney to prepare a term sheet. Timeline: 3-6 weeks.
4. Draft and negotiate EPC and O&M agreements, intercreditor terms, and off-take contracts. Timeline: 4-8 weeks.
5. Coordinate with Planning and Building Authority for permits and approvals. Timeline: 6-12 weeks, depending on project type.
6. Perform due diligence with lenders, adjust the financing plan, and finalize the closing package. Timeline: 6-12 weeks.
7. Close the financing, execute all major contracts, and begin project implementation. Timeline: 2-6 weeks after final approvals.