Strengthening Control Over Territory and Safeguarding Public Spaces on Albania’s Path to EU Membership 2030

At a press conference held at the Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Edi Rama, Interior Minister Albana Koçiu, and Justice Minister Besfort Lamallari presented a new package of legal measures aimed at restoring order and discipline in the construction sector.
Rama emphasized that illegal construction has damaged cities, urban landscapes, and, above all, citizens, who have often found themselves unprotected against abuses. He stated that this situation cannot continue and that the government is establishing a robust control system to prevent constructions outside the rules.
The package includes a series of concrete measures, such as the mandatory involvement of a responsible architect at all stages of construction and the imposition of four essential inspections by local authorities during the construction process. Additionally, the package prohibits water and electricity connections for any building that lacks a usage certificate. “These are mechanisms that leave no room for abuse because every stage will be monitored,” said the Prime Minister.
A notable innovation is the establishment of a national electronic registry for all construction permits, which will provide full transparency on every investment for institutions and citizens alike. Additionally, a public blacklist will be created for individuals and entities that violate the law. They will be barred from obtaining new permits for five years.
Rama emphasized that technological supervision, including the use of cameras, drones, and GPS systems, will play a decisive role in ensuring continuous observation of the territory. Another key element is prohibiting changes to a building’s purpose without the proper permit. Any deviation of more than 2% from the approved project will result in the confiscation of the construction.
In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized that this package is a mechanism to protect citizens and restore trust in the construction market, not simply a punitive measure. “Citizens need protection from irresponsible builders who have abused their trust and left citizens exposed. This is a step toward European standards, where the law is equal for all and no one is above the rules,” he stated.
In conclusion, Rama emphasized that the new measures are in effect immediately and will be strictly enforced throughout the territory. This signals the end of the era of uncontrolled, consequence-free construction.