…or Face Heavy Fines and Criminal Penalties
The Fire Service has issued a renewed reminder to all property owners, usufruct holders, caretakers and tenants regarding their legal obligation to clean and maintain plots of land and open spaces throughout the entire fire prevention season.
The requirement applies to properties located within urban plans, residential settlements, or within a 500-meter radius of such areas, aiming to reduce the risk of wildfire outbreaks and rapid fire spread.
Mandatory Cleaning Declaration
Following the completion of cleaning works, property holders must submit a declaration through the National Registry for Preventive Fire Protection Measures via the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection’s online platform.
In cases of co-ownership, only one declaration is required from one of the liable parties.
Manual submission at Citizen Service Centers (KEP) or local Fire Service offices is allowed only under exceptional circumstances, including:
• General malfunction or unavailability of the online platform.
• Citizens over 67 years of age.
• Persons with disabilities holding official certification.
• Force majeure situations or emergencies affecting the property or the owner.
Supporting documentation is required for all exceptional cases.
Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance
Authorities warn that inspections are ongoing and penalties are severe:
🔺 Failure to clean a property:
Administrative fine of €1 per square meter, with a minimum penalty of €200 and a maximum of €2,000.
🔺 Failure to submit the required declaration:
• €500 if no cleaning work has been carried out.
• €100 if the property has been cleaned but the declaration was not submitted.
🔺 False declaration:
Submitting false information to the National Registry carries a prison sentence of at least six months and a €5,000 financial penalty, with the case immediately referred to prosecutorial authorities.
🔺 Municipality-Enforced Cleaning:
If municipal authorities are forced to carry out the cleaning and removal of hazardous materials, the full cost of the operation will be charged to the responsible property holders.
The Fire Service stresses that prevention remains the most effective tool against wildfires and calls on citizens to contribute actively to safeguarding lives, property and the natural environment.
