According to the Federation, the new framework establishes a more rational and implementable system of regulations for the annual cleaning of plots and other uncovered areas, as well as for the submission of cleaning declarations by the responsible owners and users.
Key Changes
The submitted bill introduces positive adjustments in two critical areas, incorporating proposals from UIPI:
- Extension of the cleaning deadline and alignment with the declaration period
- Current rule: April 1 – April 30 (with a possible 30-day extension)
- Proposed: April 1 – June 15 (with a possible extension of up to 76 days)
- Establishment of a maximum fine for non-compliance with cleaning obligations
- Current rule: €0.50/m², with a minimum of €200 and no maximum
- Proposed: €1/m², with a minimum of €200 and a maximum of €2,000
It is reminded that in cases of non-compliance, the owner is liable both for the fine and for the cost of cleaning carried out ex officio by the local municipality.
Rationalization of fines and penalties
The new bill also provides for:
- Reduction of fines for failure to submit a cleaning declaration:
- From a flat €1,000 to:
- €500 if cleaning has not been performed
- €100 if cleaning has been done but the declaration was not submitted
- From a flat €1,000 to:
- Rationalization of criminal penalties for false declarations:
- From at least two years imprisonment and fines of €12,600–€54,000
- To at least six months imprisonment and fines of €5,000
- Option for physical submission of the declaration:
- For those unable to use the electronic platform, submission will be allowed at the local Fire Department.
UIPI attributes these improvements to the cooperative approach of the political leadership of the Ministry, and particularly to Minister Mr. Giannis Kefalogiannis, noting that the positions of the responsible owners were taken into account.
Outstanding issues
Despite these positive interventions, the Federation highlights two remaining issues:
- The collection of cleaning residues, which is not explicitly included in the municipalities’ responsibilities under Article 44, although it could be regulated via a Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD).
- The need to simplify and rationalize the definition of “cleaning,” as specified in Fire Department Directive 20/2024.
Appeal ahead of the fire season
With the upcoming fire season (May 1 – October 31), UIPI urges owners and users of plots and uncovered areas to comply promptly with their obligations, emphasizing that preventive cleaning is a critical measure for protecting lives, property, and the wider community from the risk of fire.