HCMC — Commune-level People’s Committees will be allowed to issue construction permits and approve building sites starting July 1, under a new government decree.
Decree 140/2025/ND-CP, issued on June 12, transfers several administrative powers from district to commune authorities. These include the issuance of construction permits and approval of construction locations, previously handled at the district level, reported the local media.
The move aligns with amendments to the 2014 Construction Law, revised in 2020, and follows procedures outlined in Decree 175/2024/ND-CP.
Commune authorities will also be responsible for collecting environmental protection fees related to air emissions and forming property valuation councils. These councils will be led by the heads of commune-level committees.
The decree expands the role of commune governments in managing social housing. They will now receive and verify applications for purchasing, leasing, or lease-purchasing social homes, including confirmation of income and housing eligibility.
Additionally, commune-level authorities will verify land use records, publicize project information, and supervise the repossession of housing when required.
Local People’s Councils may also approve concessional loans for social housing development, using local budgets, housing development funds, or other legal sources.
