Teresópolis Revokes Law Allowing 20-Story Buildings in Alto Neighborhood

A Lei Complementar nº 351, approved on December 19, 2025, which permitted the construction of buildings up to 20 stories in the Alto neighborhood of Teresópolis, was revoked late Tuesday afternoon (9).

This measure ends a controversy that had mobilized residents, civil society entities, and organized groups since the norm's approval by the Municipal Chamber. The norm had already been suspended in May 2026.

The movement “Não aos 20 Andares” (No to 20 Stories), created by residents opposed to the measure, celebrated the decision. Representatives of the group stated that the revocation is a result of popular mobilization and civil society participation in the debate on the city's urban planning.

Since then, the proposal had been subject to criticism and questioning from the population, which expressed concern about the impacts of verticalization on the city's urban infrastructure.

In the months following the approval, protests, demonstrations, and signature campaigns were held against the measure.

Furthermore, a civil public action was filed questioning the legality and potential effects of the urbanistic change.

Among the main concerns raised by residents were the local infrastructure's capacity to serve new large-scale developments and issues related to basic sanitation.

Critics of the proposal highlighted that the municipality does not yet have a fully functioning sewage treatment system.