ordenanças

Ordinanças are a type of Portuguese legislation. The term can refer to several distinct historical and contemporary legal instruments. Historically, ordinances were royal decrees or statutes issued by the Portuguese monarch. These served as a primary means of governing the kingdom, often addressing administrative, judicial, and economic matters. Over time, the nature and scope of ordinances evolved.

In contemporary Portugal, the term ordinança often refers to municipal regulations or bylaws enacted by local councils. These are specific to a particular municipality and govern local matters such as urban planning, public services, and environmental protection. The authority to issue such ordinances is derived from national legislation that delegates powers to municipalities. Ordinances are distinct from laws passed by the national parliament, which have broader applicability. The process for enacting and enforcing ordinances typically involves public consultation and adherence to established legal procedures.