This decree-law defines the procedure for classifying immovable cultural property, establishes the regime for protection zones and determines the rules for drawing up the detailed safeguard plan.
The course of the administrative classification procedure is laid down in accordance with the sequence of acts provided for in Law no. 107/2001, of September 8 – which lays down the foundations of the policy and regime for the protection and valorization of cultural heritage – from the initiative to open the procedure, through to the establishment of the special protection zone and culminating in the drawing up of the detailed safeguard plan.
The legislation outlines the responsibilities of the Institute of Management of Architectural and Archaeological Heritage (IGESPAR, I.P.) in the classification and protection of cultural heritage sites, including the establishment of special protection zones.
It also specifies the suspension of urban development procedures during the classification process and the consultation and decision-making process for the classification of cultural heritage sites and defines the procedures for the production of effects and the competent authority for the implementation of the decree-law. Additionally, it addresses the confidentiality of data related to classified immovable properties and the revocation of previous decrees.
The regulations put in place promote the compatibility of the protection of cultural heritage with land use planning and the sustainable development of communities, taking into account recent developments in land use planning, urbanisation and building and urban rehabilitation law. The decree-law emphasises the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage and provides a comprehensive framework for the protection, classification, and preservation of cultural heritage sites, contributing to the cultural identity and independence of the nation.
