Major Changes to Building Regulations in Small Settlements with New Presidential Decree
The new Presidential Decree issued by the Ministry of Environment and Energy significantly changes construction regulations in small settlements across Greece, impacting thousands of property owners.
Settlements with fewer than 2,000 inhabitants are now divided into three zones:
- Zone A: Historic core established before 1923.
- Zone B: Consolidated core developed between 1923 and 1983.
- Zone B1: Dispersed areas developed between 1923 and 1983.
Under the new rules, only plots larger than 2,000 square meters with frontage on an existing road are considered buildable.
Smaller plots, many previously eligible for construction, are now classified as non-buildable, leading to a sharp decline in value.
The decree has sparked strong reactions, especially in rural areas, where local authorities and property owners argue that the new restrictions will accelerate depopulation and devalue land assets.
Organizations such as the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE) have expressed their opposition, calling for adjustments that reflect the realities of modern rural communities.
The Ministry of Environment acknowledges the challenges and is reportedly considering measures to allow certain plots to retain building rights under specific conditions.
