In Montenegro we work with investors and developers on sourcing, evaluating and structuring development projects and income‑producing assets, with a strong focus on tourism zones along the Adriatic coast and key urban locations. Urban planning and construction are governed by national and municipal plans – the spatial plan of Montenegro and general and detailed urban plans – and only land included in an approved urban plan can be developed, even if it is privately owned.
For each project we start with a planning check: whether the plot is covered by the relevant PUP / DUP / UP plan, what the permitted land use is, which floor‑area and height indices apply and whether there are coastal or environmental protection regimes. This is followed by a legal review of title and encumbrances and an assessment of whether the land is classified as urbanised and buildable, including any limitations for foreign investors. The project documentation is then prepared in line with the Law on Spatial Planning and Construction of Buildings and the new draft legislation that re‑introduces building permits as a mandatory prerequisite for most construction activities.
The building permit process typically requires a main design, proof of building rights, compliance with the applicable plan, a positive technical review and approvals from competent authorities. Depending on the type and size of the facility, permits may be issued either by the Ministry or by local self‑government. Once construction is completed, a use permit or equivalent occupancy approval is required, together with the update of cadastral records. Hotel and tourism projects are additionally subject to specific tourism and hospitality regulations, including categorisation, minimum technical standards and licences for operating accommodation and catering services.
