The new Legal Framework for Urbanization and Building (RJUE) is now law and is expected to simplify procedures, reduce bureaucracy and accelerate construction and urban rehabilitation projects across Portugal.

Published through Decree-Law No. 108/2026, this revision represents one of the most significant changes to Portugal’s urban planning framework in recent years, aiming to increase housing supply and make development processes faster and more predictable.

What changes?

• Simplified urban licensing procedures;

• Shorter administrative deadlines;

• Expanded use of prior notification procedures for certain operations;

• Greater legal certainty in urban planning approvals;

• Increased autonomy for municipalities;

• Greater accountability for developers, architects and engineers.

The impact on our region

For property owners, families and investors in Viseu, Mangualde, Nelas, Seia, Gouveia and Penalva do Castelo, these changes may result in simpler processes for building or renovating properties.

The revision of the RJUE may facilitate the rehabilitation of buildings in town and city centres, accelerate construction projects on privately owned land and contribute to making Portugal’s interior regions more attractive for investment and housing.

Less bureaucracy, greater responsibility

Simplifying procedures does not eliminate the need for qualified technical support. On the contrary, it increases the importance of experienced professionals who can ensure projects comply with all legal and technical requirements.

How Safe Haven can help

At Safe Haven, we bring together real estate, architecture and engineering services under one roof, supporting each project from the initial planning stage through to completion.

If you are planning to build, renovate or simply wish to understand how the new RJUE may affect your property or land, get in touch with us. We are ready to help you turn these new regulations into an opportunity for your project.

Safe Haven · Real Estate · Architecture · Engineering