In a decisive move against unauthorized developments, the Greek Ministry of the Environment and Energy released findings from a new wave of inspections on the renowned islands of Mykonos and Santorini.
Conducted by mixed teams from the Inspectorate and Auditors of the Ministry and the Financial Police, these inspections uncover the extent of unapproved construction activities, a persistent issue that threatens Greece’s architectural and environmental integrity.
During this intervention, Minister Theodoros Skylakakis emphasized the government’s resolve: “The administration is determined to halt unauthorized constructions,” he stated. Skylakakis underscored the necessity of this action, pointing out that unchecked development disrupts urban planning efforts and dishonors law-abiding citizens and enterprises adhering to stringent environmental and building standards.
Reinforced by a new law (Law No. 5106/2024), effective since spring 2024, a rigorous process was established to address new unauthorized constructions. For the first time, a systematic priority for demolitions was introduced, aiming at immediate removal of such structures. Furthermore, a major technological initiative, costing €130 million, is underway to combat unauthorized buildings—utilizing satellite imagery and AI to identify and ensure all constructions meet legal standards. The result: a robust system expected to be operational by summer 2026.
Spotlight on Santorini
In detailed inspections from October and November 2024, several unauthorized constructions in Santorini’s iconic Oia area were noted. The findings include:
- A tourist accommodation in the caldera’s protected zone exceeded its approved building size; fines amounted to €191,000.
- Another property with a newly-added swimming pool, which violated protection laws, faced legal scrutiny.
- Additional fines, surpassing €900,000 collectively, targeted other constructions with unauthorized expansions just within the restricted areas near the caldera.
Insights from Mykonos
From February 18-20, 2025, inspections in Mykonos identified similar issues:
- A hotel project close to completion lacked proper permits for substantial underground construction.
- Surprisingly extensive modifications, such as new building additions and unauthorized pool constructions, were prevalent in areas zoned for limited development.
The Ministry is committed to continuing inspections and enforcing compliance across Greece, prioritizing cases post-January 2024. Penalties include substantial fines and mandatory demolitions, enforced within 30 days of a final ruling. This national effort is publicized regularly, underscoring Greece’s staunch stance against unlawful building practices and maintaining its cherished landscapes and cultural sites.