Regulatory changes ease property transfers in forest areas

The new provisions concern properties that have been “blocked” by forest maps, with the aim of facilitating citizens—particularly those whose real estate is affected by such designations.

A key element is the extension of deadlines until 31 December 2027 for municipalities and other entities to obtain the necessary permits for buildings and installations located within parks and groves. Structures that meet specific criteria will not be subject to demolition while the legalization process is underway.

According to the new framework, when a forest map is amended—for example, following an objection or correction—the relevant decisions must be attached to the property transfer contracts. In cases where a property has already undergone an objection or revision process, the issued decision, together with the corresponding topographical diagram, replaces the standard certificate. In the absence of the required documentation, the transfer of the property is deemed invalid.

It is also clarified that once a forest map has been finalized and a land parcel is designated as non-forest, the State may no longer assert ownership claims over it. For very small areas resulting from technical discrepancies—such as strips or sections up to 100 square meters—no additional procedures are required.

A substantial part of the provisions αφορά deadline extensions until the end of 2027, allowing time to resolve pending matters. Thus, facilities such as livestock units, apiaries, churches, ski resorts, municipal water supply and sewage infrastructure, sports facilities, campsites, and tourism-related installations may continue operating until then, even if they do not yet possess all required permits. Within this period, they must complete the licensing process. In the meantime, fines, demolition orders, and other administrative sanctions are suspended and, if permits are ultimately granted, they are annulled.

At the same time, certain installations—such as existing cemeteries or tourism properties developed by the State—are deemed lawful under specific conditions. The provisions also address longstanding issues related to property rights and land classification. Finally, it is clarified that procedures related to forest maps will continue uninterrupted, even where objections or correction requests are pending, in order to ensure their completion.

To date, approximately 200,000 objections concerning properties included in ratified forest maps remain under review. These are being examined progressively by the 1,240 members of the relevant review committees.

The bill will remain under public consultation until 14 April 2026.