The legal framework for construction serves as the "backbone" for all investment and infrastructure development activities. In the context of Vietnam's rapidly transforming economy, mastering construction laws and regulations is crucial not only for businesses to avoid legal risks but also for optimizing project timelines and costs. This article will analyze in detail the key changes in 2025 and the transition roadmap to 2026.
What are building laws and regulations?
Construction laws and regulations are simply understood as a code of conduct established by the State to manage the entire lifecycle of a construction project. These regulations cover everything from the initial stages such as planning and surveying, to implementation phases such as design, construction, and finally acceptance and handover.
Strict adherence to these regulations is not only a legal obligation; it is also the most effective way to protect the assets and reputation of businesses. When businesses operate legally, all risks related to quality or cost disputes are tightly controlled. This creates a transparent and sustainable business environment for the entire industry.
The current legal framework for construction in Vietnam.
The current system of construction laws and regulations in Vietnam operates on a multi-tiered structure. The Construction Law plays a foundational role, further elaborated by Government Decrees and Circulars from relevant ministries and agencies for direct application in production and business practices.
Below is a list of key legal documents that investors need to pay particular attention to:
- The 2014 Construction Law and the 2020 amended Construction Law (Law No. 62/2020/QH14): These are the highest legal documents, setting out the management framework for all construction activities in Vietnam.
- Decree 06/2021/ND-CP: This document provides direct guidance on quality management, on-site construction procedures, and periodic maintenance of works.
- Decree 10/2021/ND-CP: Provides in-depth guidance on investment cost management, helping investors control costs from the budgeting stage to the final settlement of the project.
- Decree 37/2015/ND-CP and Decree 50/2021/ND-CP: Stipulating the principles for the signing and implementation of construction contracts between parties.
- The supporting specialized laws, such as the Urban and Rural Planning Law 2024 and the Fire Prevention and Fighting Law 2024, directly affect the basic design review process.
Decree 140/2025/ND-CP and the trend of decentralizing construction management from July 2025.
The promulgation of Decree 140/2025/ND-CP is considered the biggest turning point in administrative procedures this year. According to data from the Government's electronic portal, the core content of this decree is to promote decentralization and delegation of management authority from the central government to local governments.
For investors, this change brings tangible benefits in terms of time. Decentralization allows local authorities to be more proactive in approving projects and conducting inspections. When procedures are "localized," waiting times are significantly reduced. This helps businesses save opportunity costs and quickly bring projects into operation and exploitation.
Regulations on construction permits and cases exempt from permits in 2025
Construction permit procedures have always been a "hot spot" in project management. With the support of Law No. 62/2020/QH14, regulations have been relaxed for many types of construction projects, simplifying the application and approval process and focusing on practical efficiency.
Below is a summary table of common cases where businesses and individuals are exempt from construction permits:
| Type of construction | Conditions for exemption from licensing requirements | Important legal notes |
|---|---|---|
| Detached house | Buildings under 7 stories, not located in areas with special planning restrictions or historical sites. | Based on Law No. 62/2020/QH14 |
| Temporary structures | Providing direct support for construction and management at the main construction site. | It must be dismantled when the main structure is completed. |
| Repair and renovation | It does not alter the load-bearing structure, function, or environmental safety. | Helps optimize infrastructure maintenance. |
| Rural projects | Located in an area without a detailed residential development plan. | The general planning of the commune must be followed. |
Note that being exempt from permits does not mean "freedom to build." The developer is still responsible for notifying the authorities of the commencement date. Furthermore, the developer must commit to constructing in accordance with the area's overall construction plan to avoid future inspection risks.
Quality management and construction risk management in construction projects.
Construction quality is a decisive factor in the success or failure of a project. Current construction laws not only require aesthetically pleasing buildings but also demand absolute safety through strict risk control from the very beginning of construction.
To manage risks effectively, investors need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Verify the operational capabilities of contractors and the professional certifications of engineering teams in accordance with the standards of the Ministry of Construction.
- The investor must strictly fulfill their supervisory responsibilities and not leave everything entirely to the construction unit.
- The acceptance testing process is conducted systematically at each stage based on the National Technical Standards (TCVN) system.
- Comply with fire safety and occupational safety regulations, and have contingency plans in place to respond to incidents at the construction site.
Environmental management in construction activities
Environmental protection responsibility has become an integral part of the 2025 construction laws and regulations. Current projects are subject to strict monitoring of construction waste collection and treatment processes. Businesses need to proactively prepare environmental impact assessment reports as required by the Environmental Protection Law. Neglecting this step can lead to serious consequences. Businesses may face project suspension or substantial administrative fines, severely damaging their reputation.
Reform orientations in the amended construction law of 2025 and implementation roadmap for 2026.
In the near future, the draft Construction Law 2025 is attracting attention with its goal of comprehensively modernizing and digitizing the construction industry. A key reform focus is the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in project management. BIM helps enhance transparency and minimize technical errors.
Legal consultants advise that businesses should proactively train their staff and update their technology starting now. The planned implementation roadmap, scheduled for July 1, 2026, will impose stricter requirements on digital data. Those that prepare early will have a significant advantage in bidding and project implementation.
Answering frequently asked questions about construction law for citizens and businesses.
To help readers quickly find information, we have prepared answers to the most practical questions about applying the law to real life:
Do you need a building permit to construct a house in a rural area?
Generally, this isn't necessary if the area doesn't have a detailed urban plan. However, you absolutely must check whether the land plot has been converted to residential land to avoid violating land laws.
How can you check if a construction project is being carried out according to plan?
You can look up information through the online public service portal of the province or city. Alternatively, you can directly contact the land administration and construction department at the district-level People's Committee to obtain official planning information.
What is the maximum time it takes to receive a building permit?
According to current regulations, from the date of receiving a complete and valid application, the competent authority will respond with the results within 15 to 30 working days. If additional documents are required, the managing authority must notify the applicant in writing only once.
In summary, this highlights the importance of continuously updating construction laws.
Continuously updating Vietnamese construction laws and regulations by 2025 is essential for sustainable business development. From changes in Decree 140/2025/ND-CP to the roadmap of the 2025 Construction Law, everything points towards a transparent and professional construction market. Proactive legal awareness is the best shield for all investors on their journey to creating large-scale projects.
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Content production by: Mr. Le Hoang Tuyen – Founder & CEO MAN – Master Accountant Network, Vietnamese CPA Auditor with over 30 years of experience in Accounting, Auditing and Financial Consulting.
