The Ministry of Development has launched for public debate a draft law amending Law no. 50/1991 on the authorization of construction works and Law no. 350/2001 on spatial planning and urbanism.
The draft proposes a series of amendments intended to simplify the permitting and authorization process, reduce bureaucracy and increase transparency in the urban planning and construction sector. Among the most important changes are:
1. Introducing tacit approvals
One of the most important changes concerns the introduction of the principle of tacit approval for several endorsements required in the authorization process.
If the competent authorities do not issue the requested endorsement within the legal deadline, it will be deemed granted. This measure aims to reduce administrative delays and provide greater predictability for beneficiaries and investors.
2. Simplifying the documentation required for construction permits
The draft proposes reducing the number of documents that must be submitted to obtain a construction permit.
In certain situations, some documents and endorsements could be obtained directly by the issuing authority, without the applicant having to obtain them separately. This approach could significantly shorten the time needed to obtain the permit.
3. Clarifying the validity of urban planning certificates
The amendments also concern the validity of urban planning certificates. The draft provides for clearer rules regarding their validity period and the conditions under which they may be extended.
This clarification is important because, in practice, uncertainty regarding the validity of urban planning certificates often blocks or delays investment projects.
4. Digitalization of procedures
The draft encourages the use of electronic means for submitting and processing documentation. Digitalization can lead to greater transparency, better traceability of applications and reduced direct interaction with public authorities.
5. Impact on the real estate market and construction projects
The proposed amendments may have a significant impact on developers, investors and property owners who intend to carry out construction works.
A faster and more predictable authorization process may encourage investment and reduce the costs generated by administrative delays.
However, it remains essential that the simplification of procedures does not affect the quality of urban planning control or compliance with safety, environmental and legality requirements.
Conclusion
The reform proposed by the Ministry of Development represents an important step toward modernizing the permitting and authorization process in construction.
If adopted in a coherent and balanced form, the amendments could contribute to reducing bureaucracy and increasing predictability in the real estate and construction sectors.
At the same time, the practical impact of the reform will depend on the way in which the new rules will be applied by local authorities and on their effective digitalization.