gold-plated

adjective3

1. •
   Having a thin layer of gold applied to the surface, often by electrolysis.
2. •
   (figurative) Of a project, system, etc., incorporating costly or otherwise excessive features or refinements unnecessarily; overengineered.

   • One often hears of gold plated designs with reference to our engineers lack of concern for cost. — 1988
3. •
   (figurative) Of a law, regulation, etc., embellished to excess, especially so as to be stifling, or rigid and inflexible.

   • Has society introduced swathes of new gold-plated regulations? — 2002