Ana Rodrigues de Almeida warns that the proposed revision of the RJUE increases responsibility for developers

Ana Rodrigues de Almeida analyses the proposed revision of the RJUE – the Legal Framework for Urban Development and Construction – presented in December 2025, following criticism of the Urban Planning Simplex (Decree-Law No. 10/2024). She highlights a clear shift in paradigm in urban planning licensing: less prior control by municipalities and greater accountability for developers, alongside strengthened oversight and enforcement.

In an opinion article published by Vida Imobiliária, the contracted partner at Abreu Advogados, who works primarily in the areas of Public & Environmental Law and Urban Planning & Land-Use Planning, explains the main changes introduced by the proposal and states: “Procedural simplification translates into a clear transfer of responsibility to developers.”

The proposal confirms the focus on prior notification in areas with defined urban planning parameters, reduces time limits for subsequent control and for challenges, and adjusts and shortens the timeframes of licensing procedures.

Read the full article here.