The Municipality of Athens has announced that by June 15, owners, possessors, tenants, sub-tenants, and usufruct holders of plots and open spaces are required to clean their properties and submit a responsible declaration online at https://akatharista.apps.gov.gr/.

The obligation applies to vacant lots and open areas located within approved urban planning zones, areas within settlement boundaries without an approved plan, as well as land situated within a 100-meter radius of these zones.

The required cleaning measures include the removal of flammable vegetation and organic debris from the ground surface, such as dry leaves and grass; the cutting and clearing of dry or broken trees and branches in direct contact with buildings; the thinning of shrubbery to reduce ground coverage; pruning tree bases to raise the starting height of branches depending on species and age; and the removal of abandoned combustible materials, objects, and waste.

Residents are also responsible for the safe collection and transport of all clearing residues from their properties.

Authorities emphasize that plots must be kept clean throughout the fire season, from May 1 to October 31, in order to prevent risks to public health and safety.

Non-compliance carries significant penalties. The municipality is obliged to enforce the law, imposing a fine of 500 euros on those who fail to carry out the required cleaning, and a 100 euros fine in cases where cleaning has been done but preventive fire safety measures are deemed insufficient following complaints.

Submitting a false declaration to the registry is treated as a serious offense, punishable by a 5,000 euros fine and a minimum prison sentence of six months.

If electronic submission is not possible, declarations may be filed in person at a local Citizens’ Service Center (KEP) or the competent fire service authority.