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Portugal’s urban planning licensing reform introduces significant changes to administrative procedures, aiming to simplify and speed up the approval of construction projects while placing greater responsibility on property developers.
In an article published in SAPO, Gustavo Quinteiro, Associate in the Real Estate practice at CCA Law Firm, examines the main changes introduced by Decree-Law No. 108/2026 of 29 May and their potential impact on the preparation and implementation of urban development projects.
In this context, he notes that “Less licensing will require better preparation.”
The article addresses the simplification of prior administrative control procedures, the greater role of prior notification, the new deadlines for municipal decisions and the application of the principle of tacit approval. It also highlights the increased responsibility placed on developers to ensure compliance with the applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Gustavo Quinteiro also emphasises the importance of thorough project preparation, as reduced administrative scrutiny at the initial stages does not eliminate the risks associated with potential breaches of urban planning regulations.
The article therefore highlights the opportunity presented by the reform to reduce administrative delays and costs, while stressing the need for developers to anticipate risks and ensure that their projects comply with the applicable requirements from the outset.
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- SAPO