Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen: The Ultimate Guide
Are you a property owner in Flanders, Belgium? Do you know about “Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen?” If not, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this decree.
What is Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen?
Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen is a decree in Flanders, Belgium, established by the Flemish government in 2017. It addresses the legal status of unauthorized housing in the agricultural and nature conservation areas. These unauthorized housing properties are called “zonevreemde woningen” in Dutch.
The Decreet aims to bring about a balance between the need to protect nature and agriculture and the rights of property owners whose houses were built before restrictions on construction came into force.
Why was Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen Introduced?
Before the introduction of Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen, the construction of homes was restricted in agricultural and nature conservation areas, as well as along primary roads.
This meant that some homeowners had unlawfully built properties in these restricted areas. With the introduction of this decree, these properties could be legalized, provided that the necessary conditions were met.
How Does This Decree Work?
The Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen doesn’t automatically legalize zonevreemde woningen. Instead, there are a set of rules and conditions that must be met before a home can be legalized.
To get your home legalized under this decree, some of the things that need to be checked include:
• Whether the unauthorized home is in a protected area
• Whether it’s located alongside a route with restrictions on building
• Whether it was built before the current building laws came into force
• Whether the zonevreemde woningen has been in existence before 2009
If all conditions are met, you can apply for a building permit which will allow you to legalize your home under the Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen.
Benefits of Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen
The Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen offers many benefits to property owners. Firstly, it clarifies the legal status of the homes, which were built before the restrictive laws came into force. Secondly, it gives property owners the chance to legalize their homes.
Additionally, the Decreet has led to the creation of open spaces in the agricultural and nature conservation areas, thereby ensuring that the land can still be used for its original purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is Zonevreemde Woningen?
A. Zonevreemde Woningen, in simple terms, means unauthorized housing in agricultural and nature conservation areas.
Q2. What is the Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen?
A. The Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen is a decree passed in Flanders, Belgium, in 2017. It addresses the legal status of unauthorised housing in the agricultural and nature conservation areas.
Q3. What are the benefits of the Decreet?
A. Some of the benefits include legalization of unauthorised homes, clarification of legal status, and the creation of open spaces in restricted areas.
Q4. Can all Zonevreemde Woningen be legalized under the Decreet?
A. No. Only those that meet the conditions set in the Decreet can be legalized.
Q5. What if someone refuses to legalize their Zonevreemde Woningen?
A. If you fail to legalize your unauthorized home, you risk being served with an enforcement order, which may lead to the demolition of the property.
Conclusion
The Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen has brought clarity to the legal status of unauthorized housing in restricted areas in Flanders, Belgium. With this decree in place, homeowners can finally legalize their homes and enjoy access to living spaces that meet all the necessary requirements.
If you have an unauthorized home located in agricultural or nature conservation areas in Flanders, Belgium, we suggest you take advantage of Decreet Zonevreemde Woningen and apply for its legalization today.