If you're planning to build or remodel a property in Portugal, it's essential to know about the licensing process with the local councils. In 2024, with the entry into force of the Simplex Urbanístico (Decree-Law no. 10/2024), important changes were made to simplify and speed up the licensing of works.
In this post, we explain clearly what the current stages are, what has changed and how to avoid obstacles in your construction project.
1. Request for Prior Information (optional)
Before starting the project, it is possible to ask the town hall for a preliminary analysis of the feasibility of the intended construction, based on the municipality's town planning regulations.
2. Submission of the architectural project
With the help of an architect or engineer, you should draw up the project and submit it to the town hall with:
- Land ownership documents
- Topographical survey
- Terms of responsibility for technicians
3. Approval of the architectural project
If everything complies with municipal regulations, the project is approved. From here, you can proceed with the specialties.
With the new decree, the Chambers have set deadlines for responding:
- Up to 120 working days for works up to 300 m²
- 150 working days for areas between 300 m² and 2,200 m² or listed buildings
- 200 working days for larger areas
If the City Council does not respond within the deadline, approval is considered automatic by tacit consent.
4. Submission of Special Projects
This includes structures, water, electricity and telecommunications, among others. These must also be approved by the City Council.
5. Application for a Building License
With all the projects approved, the building permit application is submitted, including:
- Identification of the builder with a license
- Appointment of site manager
- Civil liability and accident insurance
- Health and safety plan
- Work book
- Payment of municipal taxes
6. Execution of the work
Once the permit has been issued, work can begin. It must be technically monitored and recorded in the work book.
7. License to use
When the work is finished, you need to apply for this license so that the property can be legally used. To do this, you must submit:
- Work book closed
- Final project screenshots
- Technical certifications (gas, electricity, etc.)
- Terms of responsibility for technicians
⚠️ Attention:
Despite the improvements, it is essential to ensure that all projects are technically and legally compliant. An error at this stage can lead to delays or even the suspension of the work.
💡Senna Building's Tip
If you want to guarantee a hassle-free process with the minimum of bureaucracy, it's best to rely on a specialized team right from the start. At Senna Building, we accompany the licensing of your project from the first sketch to the delivery of the work - with rigor, clarity and a focus on feasibility.Saiba mais