The Luxembourg government presented a set of measures to simplify administrative procedures in the construction industry
Guilherme Cunha, Unsplash
On 10 January 2025, the Luxembourg government approved a package of administrative reforms aimed at accelerating the construction process, especially of affordable housing. Ministers Claude Meisch, Léon Gloden and Serge Wilmes presented the key points of this programme at a press conference.
Revision of article 29bis
One of the most important items was the revised requirement for affordable housing ratios in new neighbourhoods:
- 15% - in existing development zones,
- 20 per cent in new zones,
- 30% - in priority zones according to the development plan.
In addition, less parking spaces and more green spaces are provided to improve the living environment.
Expected result: creation of 14,600 new housing units, of which 5,600 are affordable housing units.
Introduction of the principle of "silence means consent"
This principle is introduced in two stages:
- The first phase includes setting deadlines for building permits, archaeological investigations and environmental procedures.
- The second phase introduces automatic approval if the deadline is exceeded, with mandatory digitalisation of all processes.
Simplification of minor construction work
For smaller jobs, such as the installation of garden houses or solar panels, the bureaucratic requirements are significantly reduced: houses of less than 12 m² or solar panels up to 30 kW do not require any permits or applications.
Environmental procedures and support for renewable energy sources
The plan includes revised regulations for renewable energy installations: solar panels on already built-up surfaces and installations in green areas will no longer require complex approval procedures.
Access to Zones of Economic Activity (ZAE)
The reform plan will also affect economic activity zones:
- Expansion of authorised activities, including services and innovative projects.
- Possibility of building housing for employees of businesses if the activity does not create significant noise or environmental disturbance.
A specialised CFUE structure has been set up to assist municipal and private developers, providing advice on projects. In addition, a new "Support for Municipalities" service will accompany the implementation of the Pacte Logement 2.0 programme and help with affordable housing projects.
Minister Claude Meisch said, "Our measures are aimed at optimising the use of existing areas and accelerating development where it is most needed."
Long-term perspectives
The 2025 plan also includes the following initiatives:
- Introduction of the Co-Living housing typology,
- National Building Standards Regulations,
- Accelerated audit of building plans (PAG and PAP),
- Digitalisation of all procedures for approval of development plans.
Environment Minister Serge Villemes emphasised the importance of accelerating the transition to sustainable energy in the face of the climate crisis, saying, "These changes will bring real benefits to citizens and facilitate access to sustainable housing."
