Montenegro’s new Law on Legalization of Unauthorized Buildings, effective from August 14, introduces stricter rules and clearer procedures to combat unplanned construction. A dedicated Directorate for Legalization has been established, and all buildings must now be registered in the cadastre within six months. For the first time, satellite and aerial photogrammetry will be used as the basis for legalization, and buildings not visible in these images cannot be legalized or legally sold.
Local governments will handle legalization of buildings up to 500 square meters, while larger structures and those in protected or high-end tourist zones will fall under the new Directorate. Owners of unauthorized buildings must submit documentation, including cadastral records, geodetic surveys, and photos of the property.
The law also defines procedures for buying state or municipal land, sets fees for urban regularization, and introduces a Space Protection Inspection to monitor compliance. Special provisions allow socially vulnerable families to pay fees in up to 360 monthly installments, while fees for hotels or resorts are payable in up to 60 installments or as a lump sum.
Authorities emphasize that the law simplifies the legalization process while ensuring transparency, legal compliance, and protection of public spaces, offering owners a fair opportunity to regularize their properties without risk of sanctions.
