2024 urban planning amnesty in Cyprus: fines for minor violations to range from €300 to €3,000

On Friday, September 13, the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Cyprus approved the guidelines for the urban planning amnesty. This will enable thousands of property owners to obtain titles after paying fines (ranging from €300 to €3,000) for minor unauthorized alterations to original building plans.

Who is eligible for the amnesty?

Owners of residential and commercial properties, including houses, offices, shops, cafes, bars, warehouses, etc.

Amnesty duration?

Six months, until March 2025.

Coverage of the amnesty?

The amnesty applies to minor changes like exceeding building coefficients, layout deviations, constructing pergolas, glazing balconies and verandas, etc. It doesn’t cover properties with added floors.

Applicable properties?

The amnesty is valid for properties with planning/building permits issued before September 13, 2024. An application must be approved, fines paid, then a certificate for functionality and titles will be issued.

Requirements for unauthorized changes?

Unauthorized changes must harmonize with the environment, match the building design, use quality materials, and not infringe on others' property rights.

Fines calculation?

Rates for violations will be in place from September 16. For example, a pergola up to 20 sq meters incurs a €1000 fine; for over 20 sq meters, the fine is €1500.

Fines collected will fund the Cyprus Land Development Organization (KOAG), focusing on affordable housing.