Cleaning of plots: New obligations and fines

The new Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD) brings significant changes to preventive fire protection, clarifying citizens’ obligations for this year’s fire season. The goal is the safety of us all and the protection of the environment. 💡

What are the deadlines for cleaning and declaration?

Owners, possessors, and tenants of properties must complete the cleaning of plots by June 15th. This same date is now the milestone for submitting the solemn declaration on the digital platform akatharista.apps.gov.gr. It is important to know that the obligation to maintain the area applies throughout the entire fire season, namely until October 31st.

What do the cleaning works include?

For an area to be considered safe, specific actions are required:

• Removal of dry grass, plant residues, and flammable materials.
• Pruning of trees and thinning of shrubby vegetation.
• Collection and proper transportation of residues to points indicated by the Municipality.

What are the fines for non-compliant individuals?

The new framework provides for strict but scaled sanctions 💰:

• Failure to submit a declaration: A fine of €500 if no cleaning was done, or €100 if the cleaning was done but the declaration was omitted.
• Failure to clean: The fine amounts to €1 per sq.m. (minimum €200, maximum €2,000).
• False declaration: Entails criminal sanctions (imprisonment of at least 6 months) and a financial penalty of €5,000.

Are there exceptions to the new rules?

Yes, the JMD introduces exceptions for specific cases, such as agricultural crops, grazing lands, landscaped gardens, and areas where there is a proven inability to access. Additionally, for individuals with an objective inability to use electronic services, the declaration can be submitted through a Citizens’ Service Center (KEP).