Window distance from the boundary in Portugal
A new building must leave 1.5 metres between the neighbouring plot and each window or door that looks straight onto it (Código Civil, art. 1360.º, n.º 1).
- Law
- Código Civil (Decreto-Lei n.º 47344/66)
- Article
- 1360.º, n.º 1
- Minimum gap
- 1.5 metres (metro e meio)
- Applies to
- Windows and doors that look directly onto the neighbouring plot (janelas ou portas que deitem directamente sobre o prédio vizinho)
- Applies when
- You build a new building or other construction on your own plot
- Angled boundaries
- The 1.5 metres is measured at right angles from the neighbouring plot; if the plots meet at more than 45 degrees, the restriction does not apply (n.º 3)
- 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...
pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=775&tabel...
pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=775&tabel...
pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=1217&tabe...
pgdlisboa.pt/leis/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=1217&tabe... - Checked
- 2026-11-05
Related rules
- Plots separated by a public road or path are not covered (art. 1361.º).
- Small high openings for light and air are allowed (art. 1363.º).
- An opening that breaks the rule can become a permanent right of view over time (art. 1362.º).
- Municipal plans and the building regulation (RGEU, arts. 59.º, 60.º and 73.º) set further distances between buildings.
Please note
- This page is a summary of the rule, not legal advice, and a court or a lawyer decides any dispute.
More: Guide
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