Gov’t tackled 260 illegal constructions last year

[Photo; Renato Marques]

The Public Works Bureau (DSOP) has released statistics indicating that in 2025, the bureau tackled 260 illegal constructions in buildings through batch processing.

According to the DSOP, these units were grouped into 10 cases to address the issue of illegal constructions at scale and more efficiently, rather than simply tackling them one by one.

Targeted were illegal constructions within the same building, including rooftops, terraces, and public corridors.

According to the DSOP, this method involves collectively opening case files and issuing demolition orders to intensify enforcement efforts.

From those, the bureau noted that in one case, a building had 15 rooftop illegal structures installed. The case was resolved after the demolition order was issued, with stakeholders voluntarily applying for removal and commencing restoration work within the same timeframe, returning the rooftop to its original state in accordance with approved building plans.

The government said that it welcomes public cooperation in enforcement efforts, which not only safeguards building safety but also helps residents avoid increased penalties and the cost of government-mandated demolition.

Authorities reiterated that illegal works compromise structural safety and urged public cooperation in addressing unauthorized structures. Eligible cases may qualify for legal incentives and fee reductions for voluntary demolition.

400 inspections of abandoned buildings

The DSOP reported that it concluded 399 inspections of buildings in a situation considered abandoned or at risk of ruin. The figures relate to the first nine months of 2025 and include several buildings in the city center, namely at Travessa da Praia Grande.

This prime zone of the city has been affected for years by abandoned buildings that pose a risk to safety as well as the environment in the area.

In some cases, the whole building has been deserted for years; in others, the ground floor has stores in operation, while the upper floors are abandoned and highly decayed.

After inspection, the DSOP determined that the structure posed no immediate danger, opened a case file for follow-up, and notified the property owner to take appropriate action.

Under the law, property owners are required to maintain or repair their buildings every 10 years after occupancy and every 5 years thereafter.

Several voices in society have advocated for a targeted policy to encourage the revitalization of the area.