Published on 07.08.2026
North Macedonia Strengthens Legal Framework for Data Centre Development
The Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia has adopted amendments to the Law on Urban Planning and the Law on Construction, introducing a more enabling legal framework for the development of data centres and related energy infrastructure. In force since 18 June 2026, these amendments form part of a broader reform agenda aimed at attracting investment in digital infrastructure and aligning the regulatory environment with evolving investor expectations.
Streamlined Urban Planning Procedures
The amendments to the Law on Urban Planning introduce a simplified regime for urban plans concerning data centres, as well as associated electricity generation and energy storage facilities. Departing from the standard process—which requires expert review and both public presentation and public hearing—the new framework provides for an expedited procedure. Under this regime, only a public presentation is required, subject to significantly shorter deadlines and without the need for a public hearing or expert review.
This streamlined approach is expected to reduce procedural timelines and facilitate more efficient project planning and execution.
Data Centres Recognised as a Distinct Building Category
The amendments to the Law on Construction formally recognise data centres within the classification of buildings for the first time. Facilities intended for the storage and processing of digital data are now explicitly included among first-category buildings.
While no special permitting procedure has been introduced, this clarification removes previous ambiguities regarding legal classification. As a result, investors can assess regulatory requirements at an early stage, plan with greater certainty, and mitigate risks associated with interpretative discrepancies during the permitting process. The increased clarity also supports financing processes by enhancing predictability for lenders and financial institutions.
Part of a Broader Regulatory Framework
These developments complement the Law on the Security of Network and Information Systems (Cybersecurity Law), adopted in 2025 and applicable since early 2026. The law establishes comprehensive obligations relating to data security, governance, and incident reporting for operators of essential and important entities, including digital infrastructure providers, aligning the domestic framework with the EU NIS2 Directive.
In parallel, the Law on Personal Data Protection continues to provide a GDPR-aligned framework, ensuring a high level of data protection compliance.
Strategic Opportunity for the Development of Digital Infrastructure
Taken together, these legislative developments signal a clear policy direction towards positioning North Macedonia as an attractive destination for digital infrastructure investment. The streamlined planning procedures, enhanced legal certainty, and alignment with EU regulatory standards create a more predictable and investor-friendly environment for data centre projects.
This direction is further reinforced by the Government’s strategic initiatives. The Minister of Digital Transformation has recently announced the planned development of a National Tier III Data Center, identified as a key project to strengthen digital infrastructure and support secure, resilient public services. With feasibility confirmed, the project is moving into the next phase, focusing on site selection, financing structure, and implementation partnerships—opening additional opportunities for private sector involvement.
For further information on the new regulatory framework, or for legal assistance in structuring and implementing data centre investments, DDK Attorneys at Law is well positioned to support both domestic and international clients across all stages of such projects.