New requirements in public works projects
- Ana Carolina Santos
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
Ordinance No. 255/2023 represents the most recent advancement in the regulation of the preparation and execution of public works projects in Portugal. With direct impact on all sector stakeholders — owners, designers, contractors, and public entities — this decree introduces a more rigorous, detailed approach aligned with technological evolution and current demands of the construction market.
Context and Objective
This ordinance approves:
The mandatory content of the execution project for public works.
The procedures and standards for drafting and phasing projects, known as "Instructions for the preparation of works projects".
A new classification of works by categories, adjusted to the increasing technical complexity of new infrastructures and buildings.
Main Goals of the Ordinance:
Update concepts and definitions used in public projects.
Improve minimum requirements in each project phase.
Strengthen accountability of project authors.
Promote the use of digital methodologies, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Adapt project phases to current management and execution concepts.
Increase rigor in budget estimates.
Adjust project specifications to types of work — from buildings to road, hydraulic, environmental, and industrial infrastructures.
What Changes in This Ordinance?
After 14 years of validity of the previous Ordinance No. 701-H/2008, a broad review was needed, considering:
Practical experience gained
Evolution of public works types and construction systems
Demand for stricter technical control
Highlights of Ordinance No. 255/2023:
Mandatory application in public contracts and projects in public tenders.
Introduction of BIM methodologies as a reference tool.
Clarification of rules for preliminary programs, base programs, prior studies, preliminary projects, and execution projects.
Classification of works by categories, simplifying processes and facilitating assignment of authorship, responsibility, and technical expertise.
Structure and Project Phases
The decree defines five phases for developing public projects:
Preliminary Program: Defines objectives, location, technical requirements, cost estimates, and deadlines.
Base Program: Presents the general scheme of the work and main constraints (legal, urbanistic, environmental, etc.).
Prior Study: Assesses construction alternatives, energy and acoustic performance, and cost estimates.
Preliminary or Base Project: Defines dimensioning, materials, quantity maps, and updated costs.
Execution Project: Consolidates all technical decisions, stipulating specifications, measurements, full drawings, and firm budgets.
This structure aims to guarantee:
More transparency and clarity in project documents
Better definition of legal and technical responsibilities
Greater rigor in award and supervision processes
Technological Innovations: BIM and Digital Modelling
A technological highlight is the gradual adoption of BIM (Building Information Modelling), aligning Portugal with best international practices:
Parametric digital models for simulation, coordination, and visualization.
Greater integration and data sharing among all stakeholders.
Requirement to deliver elements compatible with public works digital monitoring systems.
Classification of Works by Categories
The Ordinance introduces a new public works classification system:
From I (low complexity) to IV (high complexity)
Each category determines legal parameters, technical requirements, and the required specialization level for designers and teams.
Covers all areas: buildings, infrastructures, hydraulic, electrical, energy, environmental systems, communications networks, port works, tunnels, bridges, and other specialties..
Specific Requirements by Work Type
The Ordinance specifies additional requirements for:
Housing, health, education, commercial, industrial, cultural, and sports buildings.
Road, rail, airport, hydraulic, and environmental works.
Integrated safety, HVAC, thermal efficiency, acoustics, electrical, communication, gas, and waste systems.
Rehabilitation, reinforcement, remodeling, and demolition works — with adjusted phases and requirements for the intervention type.
Main Benefits for the Sector
Greater clarity and rigor in technical information provision.
Reduction of errors, doubts, and technical conflicts during execution.
Adaptation to new construction systems and digital technologies dynamics.
Better management of public and private resources.
Enhanced credibility and safety for all stakeholders.
Project Phases and Required Documentation:
Project Phase | Mandatory Documentation |
Preliminary Program | Objectives, location data, technical requirements, costs, deadlines |
Base Program | Solutions, constraints, initial cost estimates |
Prior Study | Execution alternatives, energy and acoustic analysis, costs |
Preliminary Project | Dimensioning, materials, quantity maps, updated cost |
Execution Project | Detailed specifications, measurements, technical drawings, final budget |
Practical Advice
Ensure any public contract you start respects the new phases and mandatory contents defined by Ordinance No. 255/2023.
Emphasize digital integration from the prior study, leveraging BIM benefits in coordination, simulation, and project management.
Make sure project authors correctly assume all legal and technical responsibilities, including declarations and terms of responsibility.
Consider the new work classification as a tool to select the most suitable project teams.
Request clarifications and specialized technical support whenever necessary.
Reflection
Ordinance No. 255/2023 opens a new era in public project planning and execution in Portugal, fostering more rigor, innovation, and responsibility. Professional oversight is essential to ensure quality, safety, and legal compliance of your project.
