New Romanian law may double building tax for illegal balcony closures

Law 169/2026, enacted on 25 August, introduces a provision that can raise the building tax by 100% for apartments where balconies have been closed without the required building permit. The increase is triggered only after the competent local public administration confirms the unauthorized work and remains in force until the owner obtains a regularization permit or dismantles the illegal alteration. The legislation also creates a streamlined notification process for specific minor interventions, such as the enclosure of loggias, but this does not exempt owners from meeting urban-planning and construction quality standards.

Property owners are advised to consult their local tax directorate and urban-planning office to determine the exact calculation method and required documentation. Paying the higher tax does not replace the need for a regularization permit, nor does it eliminate possible sanctions for breaching construction discipline. If regularization is impossible, authorities may order the removal of the unauthorized work.