Property owners rush to clear lots ahead of deadline

Property owners across Greece are racing to clear overgrown plots before a June 22 deadline, triggering sharp price increases and leaving many contractors fully booked as demand surges in the final days before compliance requirements take effect.

Although authorities extended the deadline for mandatory lot cleaning, unusually heavy rainfall earlier this year prompted many owners to postpone vegetation removal, fearing they would have to repeat the work later in the season.

The delay has resulted in a last-minute rush. According to official data, approximately 370,000 lot cleanings had been declared on the government platform five days ago. By Tuesday afternoon, that number had climbed to 522,495, still well below the roughly 1.3 million properties estimated to require clearing.

Prices rise as availability shrinks

Property owners report significant increases in cleaning costs as the deadline approaches.

One owner in Keratea said quotes for clearing a 0.1-hectare plot rose from around €70-80 to €250 within a matter of days after she attempted to schedule the work.

Contractors contacted in several areas of Attica said they had no immediate availability and were booked for at least the next two weeks.

A contractor in Spata said prices vary depending on the condition of the land and the equipment required but acknowledged that the rush had created opportunities for profiteering.

“Because of the rains, people delayed clearing. Now everyone is rushing at once,” he said, noting that some property owners are paying significantly higher fees to secure immediate service.

Municipalities report illegal dumping concerns

Local authorities have also reported a rise in illegal dumping of cut vegetation and other waste.

Dimitris Markou said around 600 uncontrolled dumping sites had been identified in the municipality of Spata-Artemida.

Meanwhile, Symeon Roussos said stricter inspections and enforcement measures had helped improve compliance among property owners.

Penalties remain in force

Under current regulations, owners who fail to clear their properties face fines of €1 per square meter.

Authorities have also warned that false declarations submitted through the government platform may result in penalties including up to six months in prison and fines of €5,000.

The annual lot-clearing campaign forms part of Greece's wildfire prevention strategy, aimed at reducing fire risks during the peak summer season.