The construction and operation of buildings is characterized by resource intensity in the form of massive consumption of raw materials and products, large financial and human labor expenditures, energy consumption, water consumption, long term, and significant environmental impacts, especially during their use. The currently implemented concept of sustainable development and circular economy influences the directions of development of construction industry and increases interest in self-sufficient buildings, especially in terms of energy, use of closed water circuits, use of waste materials. The aim of the article is to analyse the key determinants for the development of autonomous buildings. The general idea is that an autonomous building is designed to function without the support and services provided by public facilities, such as power, water, gas and sewage networks, waste management, and even the provision of food. On the basis of literature analysis and expert interviews, the factors characterizing this type of construction were determined. Their analysis by means of the DEMATEL method allowed to assess and indicate the most significant cause-and effect relationships conditioning the development of autonomous buildings.