Public Works Contract Procedure Thresholds
On January 7, 2025, the French government announced new thresholds for public works contract procedures. These thresholds determine the level of formality and competition required for different types of public works contracts.
Thresholds for Simplified Procedures
For public works contracts below a certain value, simplified procedures can be used to reduce the administrative burden for both contracting authorities and bidders. The new thresholds for simplified procedures are as follows:
- €100,000 for contracts awarded by the State
- €150,000 for contracts awarded by local authorities
Thresholds for Open Procedures
For public works contracts above the simplified procedure thresholds, open procedures must be used. Open procedures involve a public invitation to tender and are open to any qualified bidder. The new thresholds for open procedures are as follows:
- €1 million for contracts awarded by the State
- €2 million for contracts awarded by local authorities
Thresholds for Restricted Procedures
Restricted procedures are similar to open procedures, but they involve a pre-selection of qualified bidders. The new thresholds for restricted procedures are as follows:
- €2 million for contracts awarded by the State
- €3 million for contracts awarded by local authorities
Thresholds for Negotiated Procedures
Negotiated procedures are used for complex public works contracts that cannot be awarded through open or restricted procedures. The new thresholds for negotiated procedures are as follows:
- €5 million for contracts awarded by the State
- €7 million for contracts awarded by local authorities
Exceptions to the Thresholds
There are some exceptions to the above thresholds. For example, thresholds may be lower for contracts that are considered to be of strategic importance or that involve sensitive information. Additionally, contracting authorities may be able to use simplified procedures for contracts that are below the thresholds but that are complex or involve specialized services.
Impact of the New Thresholds
The new thresholds are expected to have a number of impacts on the public works sector in France. They are likely to:
- Reduce the administrative burden for contracting authorities and bidders
- Increase competition for public works contracts
- Promote innovation and efficiency in the public works sector
Additional Information
The new thresholds are set out in Decree No. 2025-25 of January 7, 2025. For more information, please consult the following resources:
Les seuils de procédures des marchés publics de travaux
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