We have prepared a guide commissioned by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications to assist landowners who may encounter contractual and other legal relationships during the preparation and implementation of the planning process.
Although the guide focuses primarily on national planning schemes, the principles discussed are also relevant to local government planning.
The guide explains landowners’ rights and obligations throughout the planning process
The guide provides an overview of landowners’ main rights and obligations, contractual relationships, and potential risks during the preparation and implementation of the planning process. It also explains how to participate in the planning process and protect one’s interests while doing so. The guide also includes a checklist for landowners, along with explanations, to help them state their wishes more clearly.
The guide supports landowners in:
- understanding why participating in the planning process is in their best interests
- understanding their rights and obligations during the planning process
- understanding whether any risks will become associated with their property if they do not participate in the planning process
- understanding in which cases acquisition of land is justified in the public interest and in which cases the establishment of compulsory possession of the land is sufficient
- navigating legal relationships and contractual options arising during the implementation of the plan
- learning what is realistic or justified to request in order to protect their rights and what is not
- preparing for negotiations with parties interested in the implementation of the plan, assessing risks, and making informed decisions
- using the guide for point‑based and linear planned structures
The guide will help raise landowners’ awareness and supports a more transparent and efficient planning process. The creation of this material was funded by the European Union’s NextGenerationEU recovery fund to facilitate the adoption of renewable energy.
Our client team
The guide was compiled by our counsel Sandra Mikli, and assistant lawyers Nele Otsalt and Kelly Kallaste.
