How Ukrainian citizens can obtain land plots free of charge

We explain in simple terms who has the right to register land and how to do so step by step.

Every citizen of Ukraine has the state-guaranteed right to receive a land plot free of charge. This right is enshrined in Article 121 of the Land Code of Ukraine — zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/2768-14#Text,

taking into account the amendments made by Law No. 3065-IX of May 2, 2023.

This refers to state-owned or municipally-owned land that can be registered as private property for personal use — construction, farming, or gardening.

Who is entitled to free land?

Any citizen of Ukraine can obtain land free of charge. However, this right can only be exercised once for each type of use.

For example, if you have already received a plot of land for gardening, you cannot reapply for land for the same purpose free of charge. However, you can submit a separate application for construction, farming, or a garage.

What land can be obtained and what area

The law defines the maximum size of plots that can be transferred to ownership free of charge:

• for farming — in the amount of the land share (parcel) determined as the average for agricultural enterprises in the district;
• for personal farming — up to 2 hectares;
• for gardening — up to 0.12 hectares;
• for the construction and maintenance of a residential building (personal plot):
  • in villages — up to 0.25 hectares,
  • in settlements — up to 0.15 hectares,
  • in cities — up to 0.10 hectares;
• for cottage construction — up to 0.10 hectares;
• for a garage — up to 0.01 hectares.

The size of a land plot transferred free of charge to a citizen in connection with his acquisition of ownership rights to a residential building may not be less than the maximum size of a land plot for the corresponding intended use, as established by part one of this article (except in cases where the size of the land plot on which the building is located is smaller).

How to register a land plot as property

1. Prepare an application (petition) to the authority that manages the land:
   1. to the village, settlement, or city council, if the land is communal;
   2. to the state administration, if the land is state-owned.
2. In the application, indicate:
   1. the intended use (e.g., for gardening or for a house);
   2. the approximate size and location;
   3. attach a graphic plan or diagram of the plot.
3. After the documentation has been approved and registered in the State Land Cadastre and the State Register of Real Rights, the plot becomes your property.

Important to know

• The land is transferred into ownership, not just for use.
• It can be obtained free of charge once for each type of intended use.
• The land must be free — not belong to another person.
• For farms, the size is determined by Presidential Decree No. 720/95 “On the Procedure for Land Distribution.”
• For persons who receive a land share (parcel) in kind, the area for personal farming may be increased.

The free transfer of land plots into ownership is not a privilege, but a right guaranteed by law to every Ukrainian citizen.

It allows you to register your own land, build a house, run a farm, or engage in gardening.

Following the changes in 2023, the law explicitly states that the land is transferred into ownership, meaning that you become its full owner with all rights of disposal.

If you have any questions or need help with paperwork, please contact us for advice.

We will explain the details, advise you on how to prepare your application correctly, and help you complete the procedure without mistakes — we have experience in land issues.