Romania to simplify building permit procedures in August 2026

Starting August 25, 2026, new regulations under Law no. 169/2026, known as the New Code of Territorial Planning, Urbanism, and Construction (CATUC), will simplify and unify the process for obtaining building permits in Romania.

The updated administrative procedure requires a standardized set of documents, including a type-application form, proof of property title, an updated land registry extract, and a project designed by authorized specialists. Applicants must also provide technical expertise regarding mechanical resistance and stability, as well as documentation regarding the impact on neighboring buildings where necessary.

For rural areas, the law introduces a simplified notification procedure for smaller structures. Annexes such as garages, covered terraces, pergolas, and summer kitchens with a surface area of up to 50 square meters will benefit from a shorter 15-day local authority notification period. Additionally, single-story houses up to 150 square meters intended for personal use may be constructed using specialized projects or standardized models provided by local authorities.