Agricultural Land in Cyprus
Can I build on it?
This question we get a lot from sellers and buyers.
There have been recent changes to how agricultural land can be used in Cyprus. After researching the new laws, we have confirmed that the below conditions have to be met in order to build on agricultural land.
• There is sufficient access to a public road.
• Only a permanent resident who does not already own a property in Cyprus can build.
• The building density is at least 10%.
• The size of the plot is at least 6000m2.
• Once the property is built, it cannot be sold for at least 10 years unless it is an inheritance.
• It is within the drinking water zone.
Purchasers of agricultural land in Cyprus will NOT be allowed to build unless the above minimum preconditions have been met. If the land can only be used for agricultural use it will affect the value and who is likely to want to buy it.The Lands Office now has to revalue all the agricultural land affected by the new laws.It is advisable for any potential investor of agricultural land in Cyprus to appoint an architect and/or civil engineer to apply to the Planning Authority for preliminary views. This is optional for everyone in Cyprus and the authority will provide official answers as to what is possible to be built.
What about the getting the Planning Permit
It is considerably more difficult to acquire the town planning permit if your property is registered as land instead of a plot.
When considering approval of a building permit, the opinions of the following departments may be required.
1. Water department … maybe pipes are crossing the land.
2. Electricity Authority … can they install piles or underground cables.
3. Cyta … can they connect you to the grid.
4. Hunting …. birds pathways.
5. Environment …. natural, etc.
6. Public road …. they might want to widen the road, etc.
7. Fire …. mostly for business.
8. Police … if the access is near the main road.
9. Communal … mouxtaris might not like you.
10. Work …. this is for business.
Cyprus Law