Small light openings in a wall in Portugal

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Small openings for light and air (frestas, seteiras, óculos) are allowed without the 1.5 metre gap if they sit at least 1.80 metres above the floor and measure no more than 15 cm in one dimension (Código Civil, art. 1363.º).

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Law

Código Civil (Decreto-Lei n.º 47344/66)

Article

1363.º and 1364.º

Height

At least 1.80 metres above the ground or floor, on both sides of the wall

Size

No more than 15 cm in one of their dimensions

Neighbour's right

The neighbour may build up and block these openings at any time (art. 1363.º, n.º 1)

Barred openings

Openings of any size above 1.80 metres with fixed metal bars (cross-section at least 1 cm², mesh no more than 5 cm) are treated the same way (art. 1364.º)

Official text

pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=775&tabel...

Sources

pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=775&tabel...
pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=775&tabel...

Checked

2026-11-05