18:41 6 October 2025
Change in regulations causing massive spike in applications for buildings
Polish municipalities are facing a surge in applications for zoning decisions (WZ) as property owners rush to secure building rights before new planning laws take effect in mid-2026. The spike—up to 100% higher than in previous years—is driven by fears that upcoming general spatial plans may restrict development on many plots. Local governments are overwhelmed, hiring extra staff or outsourcing work, with processing costs reaching 500 PLN per decision.
New rules also impose penalties of up to PLN 500 per day for delays, payable to investors. Municipal leaders criticize the 130% land-use cap, warning it could stall growth, but the Ministry of Development and Technology insists the reform promotes rational planning and is key to EU recovery fund compliance.
