ABSTRACT
Gaiurb, the urban planning and housing company of Vila Nova de Gaia in Portugal, has undergone a comprehensive digital transformation of its building permit processes. Since 2013, the NoPaper system, which is integrated with document management and Geographic Information System technologies, has streamlined workflows, enhanced transparency, and reduced administrative inefficiencies. The transition to Building Information Modelling (BIM) in 2018 introduced three-dimensional (3D) workflows and BIM-IFC submissions, enabling automated compliance checks to be carried out. However, the absence of standardised IFC classifications, robust georeferencing, and structured element categorisation limits automation, and existing 2D-based regulations lack the clarity required for machine-readable interpretation. Gaiurb therefore advocates the adoption of 3D planning standards aligned with BIM and CityGML, in order to support regulatory reform, interoperability, and intelligent urban governance. This transition will advance efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness, and will position Vila Nova de Gaia as a reference model for digital urban planning.
