REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACT
In force from 31.08.2008
Prom. SG. 50/30 May 2008, amend. SG. 47/23 Jun 2009, amend. SG. 82/16 Oct 2009, amend. SG. 93/24 Nov 2009, amend. SG. 82/26 Oct 2012, amend. SG. 66/26 Jul 2013, suppl. SG. 22/11 Mar 2014, amend. SG. 98/28 Nov 2014, amend. SG. 9/3 Feb 2015, suppl. SG. 14/20 Feb 2015, amend. and suppl. SG. 15/23 Feb 2016, suppl. SG. 13/7 Feb 2017, amend. SG. 58/18 Jul 2017, amend. and suppl. SG. 28/29 Mar 2018, amend. and suppl. SG. 21/13 Mar 2020, amend. SG. 51/1 Jul 2022
Chapter one.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Art. 1. (amend. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) This act shall regulate the planning, programming, management, resource provision, supervision, control and assessment of the implementation of the system of documents for strategic planning of the regional and spatial development.

Art. 2 (1) (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; revoked – SG 15/16).
(2). (former text of Art. 2 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) State regional development policy shall create conditions for balanced and sustainable integrated region and municipality development, comprising a system of legislation documents, resources and actions undertaken by the competent authorities, aiming at:
1. reduction of the differences between the regions as well as the interregional differences in the economic, social and territorial development level;
2. (suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) providing conditions for accelerated economic growth and high level of employment to promote investments, competitiveness and innovation;
3. (suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) development of territorial cooperation and integration of cross-border areas;
4. (new - SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) providing territorial basis for а sustainable regional and spatial development, and implementing integrated territorial investments;
5. (new – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) improvement of the status of the territories with unfavorable socio-economic, geographical and demographic characteristics;
6. (new – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) adaptation to climate change and reduction of the risk of disasters.
(3) (new – SG 15/16) State regional development policy is based on the following principles:
1. strategic planning approach;
2. programming and resource concentration;
3. supplementing the financing from national public sources in joint financing with funds from European Union funds, private sources and international financial institutions;
4. interdepartmental coordination of the activity of the competent authorities in the process of planning, programming, resource provision, implementation, supervision and assessment;
5. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) coordination with the other branch and horizontal policies, instruments and actions on international, national and regional level;
6. partnership, publicity and transparency in all levels in the course of planning, programming, financing, supervision and assessment.

Art. 2a (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; revoked – SG 15/16).

Art. 3. (amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) State regional development policy shall be implemented in coordination and cooperation with sectoral and horizontal policies, and shall take into account their territorial dimensions.

Chapter two.
TERRITORIAL BASIS OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Art. 4. (1) For the purpose of planning, programming, management, resource provision, supervision and assessment of the regional development shall be formed regions, divided into levels according to the requirements of the common classification of territorial units for statistics, applied in the European Union.
(2) (Suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The regions forming level 1 are statistic areas, are not administrative territorial units, shall have the following territorial range:
1. region "North and South-Eastern Bulgaria", including the North-Western region, North-Eastern and South-Eastern region;
2. region "South-Western and South-Central Bulgaria", including the South-Western and the South-Central region.
(3) (Suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The regions forming level 2 are planning areas, are not administrative territorial units, shall have the following territorial range:
1. North-Western region comprising the regions of Vidin, Vratsa, Lovech, Montana and Pleven;
2. North-Central region comprising the regions of Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Razgrad, Rousse and Silistra;
3. North-Eastern region comprising the regions of Varna, Dobrich, Targovishte and Shoumen;
4. South-Eastern region comprising the regions of Bourgas, Sliven, Stara Zagora and Yambol;
5. (suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) South-Western region comprising the regions of Blagoevgrad, Kyustendil, Pernik, Sofia and Sofia and the Municipality of Sofia;
6. South-Central region comprising the regions of Kardzhaly, Pazardzhik, Plovdiv, Smolyan and Haskovo.
(4) The regions forming level 3 are administrative territorial units and comprise the territory of the respective districts.
(5) The regions from the respective levels are the territorial basis for conducting the state regional development policy.

Art. 5. (Repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 6. (Amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)

Art. 7. (Repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020

Chapter two "a".
SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (NEW – SG, 82/2012, IN FORCE FROM 26.11.2012; TITLE AMEND. – SG 15/16, REPEALED – SG 21/20, IN FORCE FROM 13.03.2020)
Art. 7a (New – SG, 82/2012 in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 

Art. 7b (New – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 7c (New – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 7d (New – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 7e. (1) (New – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, prev. text of Art. 7e - SG 28/18, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)

Chapter three.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLANNING (TITLE AMEND. – SG 15/16)
Art. 8. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) Strategic planning of regional development comprises regional and spatial development, and covers the development and updating of a system of documents to reduce imbalances in the development of national territory, taking into account territorial potential, including ensuring the development of cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation.
(2) The system of strategic planning documents for regional and spatial development shall cover:
1. a National concept for regional and spatial development;
2. integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions;
3. a plan for integrated development of the municipality.
(3) The documents under Para. 2 shall be hierarchically subordinated and shall be developed as follows:
1. the National concept for regional and spatial development - for a term up to 15 years, except for the elements of the technical infrastructure, which are planned for a period of up to 30 years;
2. integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions - for a period of 7 years, with the exception of the elements of the technical infrastructure, which are planned for a period of up to 30 years;
3. the plan for integrated development of the municipality - for a period of 7 years.
(4) The documents under Para. 2 shall serve for:
1. identification of the current problems, needs and potentials for development of the regions, municipalities and populated areas, which are taken into account while developing investment programs and financial instruments, including co-financed by the EU funds;
2. identification of projects contributing to the achievement of national goals and priorities for regional and local development;
3. planning and implementation of integrated approaches for territorial and urban development;
4. coordination of sectoral and horizontal policies at territorial level by taking into account their territorial dimensions;
5. ensuring the coherence of the implementation of the state policy for regional development with the strategic documents at national level;
6. coordinating the development of the national territory and water area in accordance with the Maritime Spatial Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria. 
Art. 9. (Amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 10. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) The National regional development concept shall define the long-term perspective, objectives and priorities of the state policy to reduce the imbalance in the development of the national territory and its consistency with other sectoral and horizontal policies.
(2) The National regional and spatial development concept shall account for the strategy for the development of the national territory and its links to neighbouring countries and regions.
(3) The National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development shall take into account the existing strategic documents at the international level in the field of regional and spatial development, the Maritime Spatial Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria and the national strategic documents for the development of sectoral and horizontal policies.
(4) The National concept for regional and spatial development shall contain:
1. analysis of the demographic, socio-economic, environmental and territorial-urban status, the problems identified and the potential for development, taking into account also the climate change and the risks of disasters;
2. forecasts, alternative scenarios and spatial models for the development of the national territory, which take into account climate change and disaster risks;
3. vision, goals and priorities for regional and spatial development;
4. spatial structure with central, heavily urbanized territories, peripheral and rural poorly urbanized territories, territories for protection of natural and cultural heritage;
5. functional-hierarchical structure of the network of settlements with cities - centers of European, macro-regional and national importance, agglomerations and their zones of influence;
6. major and secondary development axes, including those of European and macro-regional importance;
7. transport and infrastructure corridors and sites of international and national importance, and integration of the country with the European transport, energy and gas, oil and petroleum products transmission networks;
8. informal areas with specific characteristics and problems;
9. cross-border and interregional cooperation areas which allow joint planning and management with neighboring countries;
10. necessary actions and criteria for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the concept;
11. strategic guidelines for the development and updating of integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions for a specified period.
(5) The national concept for regional and spatial development shall be elaborated by a specialized commercial company with 100 percent state participation in the capital, in which the rights of the state shall be exercised by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.
(6) The National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development shall be adopted by the Council of Ministers on a proposal from the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.

Art. 11. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) Integrated territorial development strategies shall be worked out for the regions of level 2 planning.
(2) The integrated territorial development strategy of a region of level 2 planning shall define the medium-term objectives, priorities and perspectives for sustainable integrated regional and local development on the territory of the respective planning region according to the provisions of the National regional and spatial development concept and the other sectoral and horizontal policies, as well as the region's links to other planning regions of level 2 in the country and in the neighbouring countries in the macroregion.
(3) The integrated territorial development strategy for the planning region of Level 2 shall coordinate the projections of sectoral strategies and documents at regional level in the fields of economic development, health, education, science, social services, transport, water sector, energy, broadband communications, tourism and the environment, and shall take into account their regional specificities and their territorial dimensions.
(4) The integrated territorial strategy for development of the planning region of level 2 shall take into account the projections and investment intentions for development for the territory of the region, and shall be used as a basis for the development of regional state aid schemes.
(5) The integrated territorial strategy for the development of the Level 2 planning region shall contain:
1. analysis of the economic, social and environmental status, needs and potential for development of the respective planning region of level 2;
2. forecasts, alternative scenarios and spatial models for development;
3. vision, goals and priorities for regional and spatial development of the planning region from level 2;
4. spatial structure with central, highly urbanized territories, peripheral and rural poorly urbanized territories, territories for protection of natural and cultural heritage, ​​and territories with specific characteristics and problems;
5. functional-hierarchical structure of the network of populated areas with urban centers and with identified zones for industrial development and business, for recreation and tourism, for the implementation of integrated territorial investments;
6. major and secondary axes of urban development of national and regional importance, and links with the axes of development in the macro-region;
7. transport and infrastructure corridors and sites of national and regional importance, and links with the neighboring regions in the country and in the neighboring countries;
8. measures for integrated territorial reconstruction and development;
9. measures and activities to adapt to climate change and to reduce the risk of disasters;
10. indicative list of important project ideas for the level 2 planning region with indicative budgets and an optimal timetable for implementation;
11. a general assessment of the resources required for the implementation of the strategy, specified by years according to the optimal timetable for the implementation of the project ideas;
12. necessary actions and indicators to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the integrated territorial development strategy.
(6) The integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions shall be elaborated by a specialized commercial company with 100 percent state participation in the capital, in which the rights of the state shall be exercised by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.
(7) The integrated territorial development strategies of the Level 2 planning regions shall be approved by the Regional Development Councils.
(8) The integrated territorial development strategies of the Level 2 planning regions shall be adopted by the Council of Ministers on a proposal from the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works after their approval by the respective Regional Development Councils. 

Art. 12. (Repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) 
Art. 13. (1) (suppl. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The integrated development plan for a municipality shall define the medium-term goals and priorities for the sustainable development of the municipality and its relations with other municipalities in accordance with the integrated territorial strategy for the development of the planning region from level 2 and the general spatial development plan of the municipality.
(2) (New – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The integrated development plan of a municipality shall ensure the spatial, temporal and factual coordination and integration of different policies and planning resources to achieve the defined goals to permanently improve the economic, social and environmental condition of the municipal territory.
(3) (Prev. Para. 2, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The integrated development plan of a municipal shall contain:
1. analysis of the economic, social and environmental status, needs and development potentials of the respective municipality;
2. goals and priorities for the development of the municipality for a certain period;
3. areas for implementation of an integrated approach to meet identified needs, and to support development potentials and opportunities for cooperation with other municipalities;
4. measures to limit climate change, and measures to adapt to climate change and to reduce the risk of disasters;
5. partners and stakeholders, and forms of participation in the preparation and implementation of the plan in compliance with the principles of partnership and provision of information and public awareness;
6. an indicative list of important project ideas for the municipality with draft budgets and an optimal timetable for implementation;
7. a general assessment of the resources required for the implementation of the plan, specified by years according to the optimal timetable for the implementation of the project ideas important for the municipality;
8. a program for implementation of the plan for integrated development of the municipality;
9. necessary actions and indicators to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the plan.
(4) (Previous Para. 3, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The plan for integrated development of a municipality shall be adopted by the municipal council at the proposal of the mayor of the municipality.
(5) (New – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The approved plan for integrated development of a municipality shall be presented by the mayor of the municipality before the respective regional development council within three months of its adoption by the relevant municipal council. 

Art. 13a. (New – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Art. 14. (amend. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) The conditions, the order and the terms for preparation, coordination, adoption, updating and execution of the documents under Art. 8, Para. 2 shall be determined by the implementing regulation of the act.
(2) The scope and content of the Maritime Spatial Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria, and the conditions and procedure for its preparation, adoption, implementation and amendment shall be determined by the Act on the Sea Waters, internal waterways and ports of the Republic of Bulgaria.
(3) The Maritime Spatial Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria shall be drawn up by a specialized commercial company with one hundred percent state participation in the capital, in which the rights of the state shall be exercised by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.

Art. 15. (amend. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013; amend. – SG 98/14, in force from 28.11.2014; revoked – SG 15/16)

Chapter four.
MANAGEMENT OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Art. 16. (1) (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The Council of Ministers shall adopt the National concept for regional and spatial development and the Integrated Territorial Strategies for Development of Level 2 Planning Regions on the proposal of the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.
(2) (Suppl. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Ministers and heads of departments shall take into account the predictions of the National Concept for regional and spatial development and integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions when pursuing sectoral policies within their competence.

Art. 17. (amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013; amend. – SG 98/14, in force from 28.11.2014) The Minister of Regional Development and Public Works shall:
1. conduct state regional development policy;
2. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) ensure harmonization of the regional development policy with the other sectoral and horizontal policies in coordination with the respective competent authorities;
3. define the policy on integration of the technical infrastructure of regional significance with the main infrastructure networks of national and European importance in coordination with the respective competent authorities
4. (suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) define the policy on integration of principles and strategies for sustainable, territorial and urban development in the state regional development policy on a national, regional and local level;
5. (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; suppl. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) organize the drawing up and monitor the application of the National concept for regional and spatial development and of the integrated territorial strategies for development of the 2 level planning regions;
6. (former p. 5 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
7. (former p. 6 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
8. (former p. 7 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; revoked – SG 15/16);
9. (former p. 8. –SG 82/12; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) give practical instructions to the bodies involved in the development and implementation of the documents under Art. 8, par. 2;
10. (former p. 9 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
11. (new - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
12. (former p. 10 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) ensure the implementation of the programme documents concerning regional development and territorial cooperation;
13. (former p. 11. - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
14. (former p. 12 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) organize and control the regional coordination of implementation of operational programmes, co-financed by the European Union funds;
15. (former p. 13 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) take part in the activity of the European Union structures within the frames of their powers, conduct negotiations and discussions;
16. (former p. 14 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) take part in intergovernmental committees for regional, trans-border and trans-national cooperation.
17. (former p. 15 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) assist in the harmonization of Bulgarian legislation with the regulations of the European Union legislation in the sphere of regional and spatial development.

Art. 18. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) Regional development councils shall be established in Level 2 planning regions.
(2) The Regional Development Council shall coordinate the implementation of the state regional development policy in the respective level 2planning region.
(3) The Regional Development Council shall be composed of a chairman, a deputy-chairman and members, and shall be assisted by an expert panel.
(4) Members of the Regional Development Council shall be:
1. the regional governors of the regions in the respective level 2 planning region;
2. mayors of municipalities and / or chairmen of municipal councils from the respective level 2 planning region.
(5) The representatives of the municipalities in the regional development council shall be appointed by the representatives of the municipalities, members of the respective regional development council, in accordance with the procedure specified in the regulation for implementation of the act.
(6) The number of the municipality representatives in the Regional development council shall be calculated as follows:
1. districts with a population of up to 200 000 people – two representatives;
2. districts with a population from 200 001 to 300 000 people - three representatives;
3. districts with a population from 300 001 to 400 000 people - four representatives;
4. districts with a population from 400 001 to 500 000 people - five representatives;
5. districts with a population over 500 000 people - six representatives.
(7) The Chairman of the Regional Development Council shall:
1. chair the meetings of the Regional Development Council;
2. ensure transparency of work on the implementation of the functions of the Regional Development Council;
3. ensure the conditions for holding meetings of the Regional Development Council, respecting the principle of impartiality in the implementation of the decision-making process by the members of the Regional Development Council.
(8) The chairman of the Regional Development Council shall be appointed under the conditions and in the order specified in the regulation for implementation of the law. By decision of the Regional Development Council, a member of the council or a person who is not a council member may be elected chairman of the council. When the chairman of the council is a person outside the composition of Para. 4, he or she shall not have the right to vote when making decisions by the Regional Development Council.
(9) The Deputy-Chairman of the Regional Development Council shall assist the Chairman of the Regional Development Council in the performance of its functions.
(10) The Deputy-Chairman of the Regional Development Council shall be appointed under the conditions and in the order specified in the regulation for implementation of the law.
(11) The Secretary of the Regional Development Council shall be the Head of the territorial unit of the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works for strategic and spatial planning and coordination of regional development in the respective level 2 planning region. The Secretary of the Council shall:
1. organize and provide for the administrative and technical work of the Regional Development Council;
2. participate in the meetings of the Regional Development Council without voting right in decision-making.
(12) In the performance of his / her functions, the Chairperson shall be assisted by the territorial unit of the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works for strategic and spatial planning and coordination of regional development in the respective level 2 planning region. The expert staff of the Regional Development Council shall consist of three separate units with specific functions: mediation unit, public consultation unit and pre-selection unit.
(13) The meetings of the Regional Development Council with the right to an advisory vote, as observers, shall include:
1. a representative of the Central Coordination Unit Directorate in the administration of the Council of Ministers;
2. a representative of the “Audit of EU Funds” Executive Agency at the Ministry of Finance;
3. one representative from each ministry;
4. a representative of the National Statistical Institute;
5. a representative of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences;
6. a representative of the National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria;
7. representatives of the nationally represented employers' organizations having their members in the territory of the respective level 2 planning region;
8. representatives of the nationally represented organizations of workers and employees;
9. representatives of higher education institutions in the respective level 2 planning region;
10. representatives of the economic sector in the respective level 2 planning region;
11. representatives of non-profit legal entities engaged in public benefit activities on the territory of the respective level 2 planning region.
(14) The observers under Para. 13, items 6 - 11 shall have the right to vote when adopting decisions under Art. 19, Para. 1, item 3.
(15) The rules of procedure for determining the list of names of the representatives as per Para. 13 shall be determined by the implementing regulations of the law.
(16) (Amend. - SG 51/22, in force from 01.07.2022) The resources needed for the activities of the Regional Development Council and for strengthening its administrative capacity can be envisaged as resources under operational programs co-financed by the European Funds with shared management, as well as from the State budget.

Art. 19. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) The Regional development council shall:
1. discuss and approve the draft of the integrated territorial strategy for the development of the Level 2 planning region;
2. perform functions of management, coordination, monitoring and control of the implementation of the integrated territorial strategy for development of the respective level 2 planning region;
3. (amend. - SG 51/22, in force from 01.07.2022) participate in the process of selecting concepts for integrated territorial investments co-financed by the European Funds with shared management, from other European funds and financial sources, including financial instruments, and from the relevant national co-financing, in the implementation of the integrated territorial development strategy of the level 2 planning region;
4. (amend. - SG 51/22, in force from 01.07.2022) provide letters of support regarding the participation of Bulgarian partners in projects under cross-border cooperation programs co-financed by the European Funds with shared management and instruments for pre-accession assistance of the European Union, under the conditions and by the procedure laid down in the implementing rules of the law;
5. perform consultative function in the preparation of the plans for integrated development of the municipalities in the level 2 planning region;
6. consider and discuss issues relevant to the development of the Level 2 planning region.
(2) The organization and activities of the Regional Development Council shall be determined by the regulations for the implementation of the law.

Art. 20. (Repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)

Art. 21. The district governor shall:
1. (suppl. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
2. (suppl. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
3. (new - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; revoked – SG 15/16);
4. (former p. 3, suppl. - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
5. (former p. 4, - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) assist the municipal administrations of the municipalities in the district in the development and implementation of the plans for the integrated development of the municipalities by providing consultations and recommendations;
6. (former p. 5 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) render assistance at the implementation, monitoring and assessment of the respective integrated territorial strategy for development of the level 2 planning region;
7. (former p. 6 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16) coordinate the fulfilment of strategic sector documents related to regional development;
8. (former p. 7 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) assist in the preparation of projects according to the objectives and priorities of the integrated territorial development strategy of the respective level 2 planning region and the plans for integrated development of the municipalities in the territory of the district;
9. (former p. 8 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) contribute to providing information and publicity on the territory of the relevant district on the implementation of the integrated territorial development strategy of the Level 2 planning region;
10. (former p. 9 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) conclude cooperation agreements with other districts inside or outside the state for carrying out joint activities for the purposes of regional development and territorial cooperation.

Art. 22. (1) District development councils shall be established in every district.
(2) (amend. – SG 15/16) The district governor is a chairman of the District development council and its permanent members are the mayors of municipalities in the district, representatives of each of the municipal councils of the municipalities, delegated representatives of the district structures of the representative organizations of the employers and of the workers and employees on a national level.
(3) (new – SG 15/16) As council members with a voting right during the discussion of issues related to their competency shall participate also the heads of territorial units of the central governing authority in the region.
(4) (prev. par. 3, suppl. – SG 15/16) The chairman of the District development council shall invite at the sessions natural persons and representatives of legal entities and of civil organizations related to district development in their advisory capacity.
(5) (prev. par. 4 – SG 15/16) District development councils shall:
1. (suppl. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
2. (repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
3. (repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
4. (repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
5 (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) approve the rules for organization of the standing commissions activity under the regional development council;
6. (former p. 5 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) adopt decisions for concluding cooperation agreements with other districts inside or outside the state for carrying out joint activities for the purposes of regional development and territorial cooperation;
7. (new – SG 47/09, in force from 23.06.2009, former p. 6 - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012) coordinate the prepared according to the Waters Act regional general layouts of water supply and sewage systems and facilities, general lay outs of agglomerations above 10.000 equivalent residents for the water supply and sewage systems and facilities, investment programs to the regional general lay outs of water supply and sewage systems and facilities, and investment programs to general lay outs of agglomerations above 10.000 equivalent residents for the water supply and sewage systems and facilities.
8. (new – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) consider and discuss issues pertaining to the development of the district.
(6) (amend. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; prev. par. 5, amend. – SG 15/16) Upon decision of the regional development council, standing or provisional commissions shall be set up to support its activity. Standing commissions shall be set up in the field of spatial planning, land development and construction, industry and new technologies, transport and energy, tourism and environment, healthcare, education, labour market and others.
(7) (prev. par. 6. – SG 15/16The organization of the activity of the district development councils shall be set out by the regulations for implementation of the Act.
(8) (new - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; prev. par. 3, suppl. – SG 15/16) The organization and activity of the standing and provisional commissions shall be determined by rules, which shall be approved by the regional development council.
(9) (new - SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; prev. par. 8 – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The standing commission for spatial development, territory planning and construction shall be headed by an architect from the respective regional administration.

Art. 23. Municipalities Mayors shall:
1. (amend. – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) organize the preparation of the plan for integrated development of the municipality and submit it to the municipal council in order to be discussed and adopted;
2. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) manage, organize and control the activity related to the implementation of the plan for integrated development of the municipality;
3. (revoked – SG 15/16)
4. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) submit annual report on monitoring of the implementation of the plan for integrated development of the municipality in order to be approved by the municipality council;
5. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) provide publicity and transparency of the plan for integrated development of the municipality, as well as the actions related to its implementation.

Art. 24. Municipal councils shall:
1. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) discuss and adopt the plan for integrated development of the municipality upon proposal of the mayor of the municipality;
2. (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; revoked – SG 15/16)
3. (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. and suppl. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) control the provision of compliance of the general territory development plan with the plan for integrated development of the municipality;
4. (former p. 2 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) approve annual reports on monitoring of the implementation of the plan for integrated development of the municipality upon proposal of the mayor of the municipality.

Art. 25. (revoked – SG 15/16)

Chapter five.
RESOURCE PROVISION OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Art. 26. Sources of financing of regional development are:
1. the state budget;
2. municipality budgets;
3. resources from natural and legal persons;
4. (suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) resources from European Union funds, including financial instruments;
5. international financial institutions;
6. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) other sources, set out by an Act or by a secondary legislation.

Art. 27. (1) (prev. Art. 27 – SG 15/16) The funds from the sources under Art. 26 shall be spent on:
1. preparation and update of strategic planning and programming documents, as well as on development of projects;
2. (new – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) preparation and updating of the National concept for regional and spatial development and of the integrated territorial strategies for development of level 2 planning regions;
3. (former p. 2 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) financing of programmes and projects, including such, co-financed by resources from European Union funds and international finance resources, in conformity with the concluded agreements and the respective programming documents;
4. (former p. 3 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
5. (former p. 4 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012; amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) carrying out monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development and of the integrated territorial strategies for the development of Level 2 planning regions;
6. (former p. 5 – SG, 82/2012, in force from 26.11.2012, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) providing communication strategy of the regional development policy.
(2) (New – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) The preparation, updating, monitoring and evaluation of the plans for integrated development of the municipalities shall be financed from the budgets of the respective municipalities and / or through funds from the European Union funds and other financial sources, with the mayors of the municipalities each year planning the necessary financial resources.
(3) (New – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Every year, the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, as the competent authority for the development of the documents under Art. 8, para. 2, items 1 and 2, shall plan the necessary financial resources for the implementation of the development, updating, monitoring and evaluation activities within the budgetary procedure. The funds shall be provided in accordance with the Act on the State Budget of the Republic of Bulgaria for the respective year and / or through funds from the European Union funds and other financial sources.
Art. 28. (amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013; amend. – SG 98/14, in force from 28.11.2014, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Art. 29. Regional development in the regions shall be supported by the state according to the legislation in the sphere of state aid.

Chapter six.
MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Art. 30. (1) (Suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Monitoring and assessment of regional and spatial development shall be carried out for the purpose of effective and efficient strategic planning, programming, management and resource provision of regional development.
(2) The monitoring and assessment shall report on the results of implementation of the documents contributing to regional development.
(3) (New – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Geographic information systems, official statistics from the National Statistical Institute and Eurostat, and other sources of official information shall be used to monitor and evaluate regional development.
(4) (New – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Sources of information for monitoring and evaluation of regional development under Para. 3 shall be specified in the implementing regulations of the act.

Art. 31. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) The monitoring of the implementation of the National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development shall be carried out on the basis of the results of the monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of integrated territorial development strategies for Level 2 planning regions and of integrated municipal development plans.
(2) The monitoring of the implementation of the integrated territorial development strategies of the planning regions of level 2 and of the plans for integrated development of the municipalities shall be carried out under the conditions and in the order determined by the regulation for the implementation of the act. 

Art. 32. (Amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) (1) Simultaneously with the development of strategic documents for regional and spatial development under Art. 8, Para. 2, items 2 and 3, an environmental assessment shall be carried out or the necessity of carrying out an environmental assessment in accordance with the procedure of the Environmental Protection Act shall be assessed.
(2) At the discretion of the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works as a competent body for the development of the documents under Art. 8, Para. 2, items 1 and 2, as well as at the discretion of the mayors of municipalities as competent bodies for the development of the documents under Art. 8, Para. 2, item 3, a preliminary assessment of their socio-economic impact may be carried out for the development of the relevant documents.

Art. 33. (1) (amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Interim assessment shall be carried out about the implementation of the strategic documents for regional and spatial development under Art. 8, Para. 2 in the middle of their period of validity.
(2) Interim assessments shall include:
1. evaluation of the initial results from the implementation;
2. assessment of the extent to which the respective targets have been attained;
3. review on the efficiency and effectiveness of the resources spent;
4. (amend. – SG 15/16) conclusions and suggestions to the implementation of the respective document.

Art. 34. (1) (Amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) For the implementation of the strategic documents for regional and spatial development under Art. 8, Para. 2, an ex-post impact assessment shall be carried out not later than one year after their expiry date.
(2) Subsequent assessments shall include:
1. assessment of the extent to which the targets have been attained and the stability of the results;
2. assessment of the overall effect;
3. review on the efficiency and effectiveness of the resources spent;
4. conclusions and suggestions for the pursuit of regional and local development policy.

Art. 35. (amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) During the period of effect of the documents on regional and spatial development under Art. 8, par. 2 may be carried out additional thematic assessments regarding specific cases if the bodies in charge of the management of regional development consider it is necessary.

Art. 36. (1) (amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013; amend. – SG 98/14, in force from 28.11.2014, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Assessments shall be carried out by way of assignment under the terms and following the procedure of the Public Procurement Act by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works and by mayors of municipalities respectively.
(2) (Repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Art. 37. (1) (Amend. and suppl. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) Strategic documents for regional and spatial development, as well as the documents related to the actions of the respective authorities in charge of their drawing in, approving, adopting, implementing, monitoring and assessment, shall be considered official public information and shall be kept in a single information patform for the purposes of the regional development policy.
(2) The authorities carrying out activity within the frames of their competency provided by this Act and the acts regarding its implementation, shall be obliged to inform immediately in a proper manner the society of the nature and the essence of the actions undertaken, of their necessity and potential benefits, their consequences and the results achieved.

Chapter seven.
SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT MONITORING (NEW – SG 15/16, REPEALED – SG 21/20, IN FORCE FROM 13.03.2020)
Art. 38. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Art. 39. (New – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Art. 40. (New – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
Additional provisions

§ 1. Within the meaning of this Act:
1. (amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) "Territorial cooperation" shall mean a framework for the implementation of joint actions and policy exchanges between national, regional and local actors from different Member States having a cross-border, transnational and interregional nature, including the establishment of networks for the exchange of information and experience between stakeholders.
2. (revoked – SG 15/16).
3. (amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
4. (amend. – SG 15/16, amend. – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) "Operational programmes" are documents containing the country's strategy in certain policy areas through which the Cohesion Policy of the European Union is implemented.
5. "Sustainable integrated regional and local development" means preservation, development and selective changes in the living and working conditions in the various regions by interrelated activities in the economic and social spheres according to the requirements for protection of the environment and protection against all forms of discrimination.
6. (amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
7. (amend. – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
8. (repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
9. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
10. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
11. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
12. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
13. (new – SG 15/16, repealed – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020)
14. (new - SG 13/17) The specialized corporate body with one hundred percent state participation in the capital, where the rights of the state are exercised by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works is National Center for Regional Development EAD, Sofia.
15. (new – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) "Sectoral policies" shall be a set of principles and actions that affect particular sectors of government such as transport, environment, energy, economy, health, education, social services, culture, tourism, housing and more.
16. (new – SG 21/20, in force from 13.03.2020) "Cross-border regions" shall be territories (areas of level 3) bordering by land or by water with a neighboring Member State of the European Union, or with a third country at the external borders of the European Union.

Transitional and concluding provisions

§ 2. The Regional Development Act (prom. - SG 14 /04; amend. and suppl. - SG 32/05 and SG 88/05 and SG 24/06) is revoked.

§ 3. (1) The directorates for technical assistance, coordination and management of regional programmes and plans, established in the structure of the respective district administrations by the revoked Regional Development Act, shall be closed down.
(2) (amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013) The full-time positions and the activity of the closed directorates under para 1 shall be transferred to the territorial units of the Ministry of Regional Development as per Art. 20 of this Act.
(3) Employment and official legal relations with the employees of the directorates under para 1 shall be settled according to Art. 123 of the Labour Code and Art. 87a of the Civil Servant Act.

§ 4. National regional development strategy, regional development plans and district development strategies shall be brought in compliance with the provisions of the Act within one year from its entry into force.

§ 5. Upon proposal by the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works the Council of Ministers shall adopt Regulations for implementation of the Act within three months from its promulgation in State Gazette.

§ 6. (amend. – SG 66/13, in force from 26.07.2013; amend. – SG 98/14, in force from 28.11.2014) The implementation of the Act is assigned to the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works.

§ 7. The Act shall enter into force three months from its promulgation in State Gazette.
-------------------------
The Act was passed by the 40th National Assembly on May 15 2008 and is affixed with the official seal of the National Assembly.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE WATERS ACT
(PROM. – SG 47/09, IN FORCE FROM 23.06.2009)

§ 46. The Act shall enter into force from the day of its promulgation in the State Gazette, except for § 26, 29, 30, 32 – 36 and 40, which shall enter into force three months after its promulgation.

-------------------------
The Act was passed by the 40th National Assembly on May 15 2008 and is affixed with the official seal of the National Assembly.

Concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACT
(PROM. - SG 82/09, IN FORCE FROM 16.10.2009)

§ 4. The Act shall enter into force from the day of its promulgation in the State Gazette.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR ACT
(PROM. – SG 93/09, IN FORCE FROM 25.12.2009)

§ 100. This Act shall enter into force one month after its promulgation in the State Gazette except § 1, 2, 21, 36, 39, 41, 44, 45, 50, 51, 53, 55, 56, 57, 59, 62, 63, 64, 65, 70 and 91, which shall enter into force from the day of its promulgation.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE ACT ON TERRITORY PLANNING
(PUBL. – SG, 82/2012, IN FORCE FROM 26.11.2012)

§ 149 The act shall come into force within 30 day term from its publication in the State Gazette with the exception of § 16, § 35, p. 2 and § 39, which shall come into force from 1 January 2016.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE ACT ON SPATIAL PLANNING
(PUBL. – SG, 66/2013, IN FORCE FROM 26.07.2013)

§ 54. In the Regional Development Act (prom. SG 50/08; amend. SG 47, 82 and 93/09; SG 82/12) everywhere the words "Minister of Regional Development and Public Works", "the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works" and "Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works" shall be replaced respectively with "Minister of Regional Development", "the Minister of Regional Development" and "Ministry of Regional Development".

……………………………

§ 117. The act shall come into force from the day of its publication in the State Gazette.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION ACT
(PROM. - SG 22/14, IN FORCE FROM 11.03.2014)

§ 20. The act shall enter into force from the day of its promulgation in State Gazette.

Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT ACT
(PROM. – SG 98/14, IN FORCE FROM 28.11.2014)

§ 117. The Act shall enter into force from the date of its promulgation in the State Gazette.

Concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING THE TOURISM ACT
(PROM. - SG 9/15, IN FORCE FROM 03.02.2015)

§ 6. The Act shall enter into force from the date of its promulgation in the State Gazette
Concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACT
(PROM. – SG 15/16)
§ 45. (1) Within three months after entering of this Act into force the Council of Ministers shall bring into compliance therewith the Regulations on the application of the Regional Development Act.
(2) The Council of Ministers shall adopt the Ordinance under Art. 7e within 6 months after entering of this Act into force.
Concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING THE ACT ON BULGARIAN FOOD SAFETY AGENCY
(PROM. - SG 58/17, IN FORCE FROM 18.07.2017)
§ 76. This Act shall enter into force on the day of its promulgation in the State Gazette.
Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACT
(PROM. – SG 21/20, IN FORCE FROM 13.03.2020)
§ 37. Implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2012 - 2022, of the regional development plans for the period 2014 - 2020, of the municipal development plans for the period 2014 - 2020, of the integrated plans for urban recovery and development for the period 2014 - 2020, of the National Concept for Spatial Development for the period 2013 - 2025 and of the regional spatial development schemes of the Level 2 regions for the period 2014 - 2020 shall be completed under the order they were initiated.
§ 38. The implementation and the monitoring thereof of the regional development strategies for the period 2014-2020, and of the regional spatial development schemes of the districts for the period 2014-2020 shall end with their expiry without carrying out an ex-post evaluation.
§ 39. Competent authorities for the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2012 - 2022, of the regional development plans for the period 2014 - 2020, of the district development strategies for the period 2014 - 2020, of the municipal development plans for the period 2014-2020, of the iIntegrated urban recovery and development plans for the period 2014-2020, of the National Spatial Development Concept 2013-2025, of the Regional Spatial Development Schemes of the level 2 regions for the period 2014 - 2020 and of the regional schemes for spatial development of districts for the period 2014 - 2020 shall keep its functions, powers and responsibilities until the end of validity of the relevant documents.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
§ 55. The Regulations for Implementation of the Act shall be brought into compliance with this Act within 6 months from its entry into force.
§ 56. This Act shall enter into force on the day of its promulgation in the State Gazette.
Transitional and concluding provisions
TO THE ACT AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE ACT ON MANAGEMENT OF FUNDING FROM THE EUROPEAN STRUCTURAL AND INVESTMENT FUNDS
(PROM. - SG 51/22, IN FORCE FROM 01.07.2022)
§ 73. The Act shall enter into force on the day of its promulgation in the State Gazette.