A recent unanimous decision by the Special Body of the São Paulo Court of Justice has dismissed a legal action that challenged zoning changes in the Pinheiros margin area of São Paulo. The decision, made public on September 4, 2024, followed a lawsuit initiated by the Public Ministry, which argued that modifications to zoning designations from ZCOR-2 (Corridor Zone 2) to ZC (Centrality Zone) were carried out without necessary technical planning or community participation. These changes were aimed at facilitating the construction of a megachurch for the Presbyterian Church of Pinheiros.

The proposed megachurch is planned to be a twelve-story building capable of accommodating up to 3,000 people, situated near the Universitária Bridge in Alto de Pinheiros. Prior to this ruling, the zoning regulations imposed restrictions on the construction of low-rise buildings suitable for residential use in the identified lots, including the one occupied by the church. The judicial decision effectively removes these restrictions, paving the way for the megachurch's development in an area that has faced scrutiny for its rapid urbanization and lack of public consultation.

This ruling has significant implications for urban planning and community engagement in São Paulo. It raises concerns regarding the adequacy of oversight in zoning laws and the prioritization of commercial or religious interests over residential community needs. The local government, led by Mayor Ricardo Nunes, has not yet provided a response to the decision, leaving residents and local stakeholders anxious about potential changes in their neighborhood's landscape and infrastructure, as well as the emphasis on inclusion in future planning efforts.