Decrease in Number of Permits, Increase in Value and Area
In an interesting development that defies expectations, construction permits in Albania for 2024 have decreased in number, but at the same time have increased in value and approved area. These data not only reflect the pace of urban and economic change, but also signal a strategic shift towards larger, more advanced and more sustainable projects. As 2025 begins, this trend looks set to deepen, especially in major urban centers such as Tirana, Durrës and Vlora.
What are Building Permits?
Application process in Albania
Building permits are official documents that authorize the construction of a new structure. In Albania, this process requires approval by local authorities (municipalities) in accordance with urban planning and applicable legislation. The process includes several steps: submission of technical documentation, project evaluation, approval by the Urban Planning Council, and then, issuance of the permit.
Economic and legal importance
In addition to being a legal obligation, building permits are also an important economic indicator. They reflect activity in the construction sector, which is one of the main sectors contributing to the growth of a country’s GDP. This makes the analysis of these permits a useful tool for investors, urban developers, and politicians.
Statistics for 2024: Fewer Permits, More Surface Area
Number of permits decreasing
During 2024, 1,336 building permits were approved, a decrease of 16.6% compared to the previous year. This suggests greater selectivity in project approval.
Increase in area and value
Despite this numerical decline, the total approved area reached 2.49 million m², an increase of 18.1%. At the same time, the total value of approved projects increased by 18.8%, reaching 1.064 billion euros.
This contrast between the number and size of projects suggests a shift from small-scale construction to more ambitious and sustainable projects.
