Ukrainians may lose land: in what cases the state will take the plot.

The right of ownership of a land plot allows one to possess, use, and dispose of the land. The owner can sell, give away, exchange, bequeath, or rent the plot, provided that it does not violate the law.

According to Chapter 22 of the Land Code of Ukraine, there are clearly defined grounds, order, and mechanism for termination of land rights for both legal entities and citizens, emphasizes expert from the 'State Land Fund of Ukraine'

Sergiy Konovalov.

Voluntary renunciation of the right of ownership of land

The owner of the land plot may voluntarily renounce their ownership if they decide that maintaining the plot is unprofitable or they do not plan to use it. In this case, the person submits a written application to the local government or executive authority.

According to Konovalov, voluntary renunciation occurs only in favor of the state or territorial community, and the transfer is gratuitous.

Loss of ownership through death without heirs

After the death of the owner of the land plot and the absence of heirs, the land passes into state or communal ownership. This occurs in the case where there are no relatives of the landowner or if they did not make a will.

This mechanism is regulated by both civil and land legislation.

Alienation of the plot by the owner

Sale, donation, exchange, or other actions aimed at transferring the land plot to another person are a form of termination of ownership rights. This occurs on a voluntary basis.

'When the owner decides to dispose of the property themselves — this is a classic ground for terminating their rights to the plot,' notes Konovalov.

Enforcement on the land plot

If the owner does not fulfill the conditions of the loan, the land plot that was used as collateral or mortgage may be seized in favor of the creditor. The owner may lose their right to the land after a court decision.

'Such enforcement may occur in accordance with the Law of Ukraine 'On Mortgages' or 'On Pledges', if the owner violates the terms of the contract,' explains Konovalov.