Romanian local administrative and urban planning reforms

Romania is undergoing various administrative and legislative developments at the local and regional levels. The PSD has initiated a proposed administrative-territorial reform aimed at consolidating local government units with fewer than 1,500 inhabitants. This plan, which targets 429 administrative units nationwide, seeks to address demographic declines caused by aging populations and migration. Supported by PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu, the proposal includes a timeline where voluntary mergers would occur by March 1, 2027, followed by mandatory consolidations intended to take effect before the 2028 local elections.

While some officials argue that larger units will possess better financial capacity for investments in infrastructure, others have expressed caution. PNL Senator Călin Petru Marian emphasized that the reform must be based on rigorous studies and community consultation. In parallel, regional authorities are addressing territorial management. The Brașov County Council has finalized its County Territorial Planning Plan, while the Cluj County Council has sought amendments to the new Urbanism Code, Law no. 169/2026.

The implementation of Law no. 169/2026 regarding the Territorial Planning, Urbanism, and Construction Code has triggered significant administrative and legal challenges. Alin Tișe, President of the Cluj County Council, has formally submitted proposals to the Romanian Government to amend the legislation, describing certain provisions as “aberrant.” The Council argues the code restricts citizen rights, lacks practical digitalization, and leaves local authorities without necessary application tools.

In the judicial sector, the High Court of Cassation and Justice issued a decision clarifying that building permits may remain valid even if the underlying urban planning documentation is subsequently revoked for illegality, provided the authorization process began legally. Furthermore, new regulations for residential renovations now require official notification for expanding bathrooms or kitchens, with potential fines between 5,000 and 50,000 lei for non-compliance.