Portugal to reform construction licensing rules in October 2026

Portugal is set to implement a major reform of its Urbanization and Building Legal Regime (RJUE) starting October 1, 2026. The reform, established via Decreto-Lei n.º 108/2026, aims to reduce administrative delays and bureaucracy in construction, renovation, and expansion projects.

The new system shifts the regulatory philosophy from prior administrative control to increased responsibility for owners, developers, and professionals. Under the new rules, certain works may proceed through prior communication without waiting for formal municipal validation, provided they meet established urban planning parameters. Oversight and inspections will instead occur during or after the execution of the works.

The reform, part of the 'Construir Portugal' program, also applies to certain pending processes that are still in the initial stages of review as of the implementation date. This legislative change is intended to address the country's housing shortage by accelerating the production and rehabilitation of the existing housing stock.