RGEU
Published 8 November 2026, 20:40
Regulamento Geral das Edificações Urbanas, Decreto-Lei n.º 38382/1951 (general regulations for urban buildings)
An old technical code covering minimum room sizes, ceiling heights, daylight and ventilation. The familiar figures come from it: a room of at least 10.5 m², a bathroom of at least 3.5 m², a studio with a kitchen of at least 16 m².
Where you come across it. Talking to an architect about the layout, a dispute over whether a room can be divided or turned into a studio.
It was due to be repealed from 1 June 2026, but in May 2026 the repeal was made conditional on a new technical code coming into force. Until that happens, the RGEU remains in force.
Official website: diariodarepublica.pt/dr/legislacao-consolidada/decreto-lei/1999-34567875