Main points
- The minimum lease term for agricultural land in Ukraine is 7 years, and for reclaimed land – 10 years.
- Non-agricultural lands do not have a strict minimum lease term, which allows the parties to the contract to determine it independently.
Land lease term / Photo by Pexels
Quite often, owners of land shares in Ukraine lease them to farmers. However, not all of them know that the legislation sets restrictions on the minimum term of land lease.
What is the shortest term for which land can be leased?
When leasing a land plot, it is important not only to agree on the amount of rent and the terms of land use, the Land Fund of Ukraine reports. In addition, it is worth understanding the minimum term for which the contract can be concluded.
Ukrainian legislation establishes certain restrictions that affect the possibility of early termination of the agreement or revision of its terms. According to the Land Code of Ukraine, the minimum terms of lease of land plots differ depending on their purpose:
- Agricultural land – at least 7 years. This means that if you have a share or other plot of land for farming, you cannot rent it out for a year or two – only for a minimum of 7 years. This is done to ensure the stability of agricultural production and rational use of land.
- Reclamated lands (irrigated or drained) – at least 10 years. This norm provides for the protection of the interests of farmers who invest in the creation and maintenance of reclamation systems.
- Non-agricultural land – there is no hard minimum term. For such plots, the lease terms are determined by the parties to the contract, which provides more opportunities for flexible property management.
Why can't a contract be concluded for a short period of time?
This is not allowed by law – the minimum term for agricultural land is enshrined in the legislation, and a notary or registrar will not be able to register a short-term agreement.
In addition, there are risks for farmers. If the contracts were short-term, tenants could avoid responsibility for preserving and improving soil quality.
Please note! In this case, the possibilities for terminating the contract will also be limited. If the owner of the land leased it for 7 years, it may be difficult to terminate the agreement early, even if the tenant does not fulfill his obligations.
Important points when concluding a lease agreement
- Check the terms of the contract before signing – read all the clauses carefully, especially those relating to the possibility of terminating the agreement.
- Provide sanctions for violations – in the event of failure by the tenant to fulfill their obligations, the contract should contain fines or other measures of influence.
- Consult with lawyers – professional help will help you avoid pitfalls and protect your rights.
Is it possible to privatize land without obtaining consent from neighbors?
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Land privatization in Ukraine requires coordination of boundaries with neighbors, but their lack of consent is not a legal basis for refusing to approve technical documentation.
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The local government body has the authority to make decisions on the transfer of land ownership even in the absence of the signature of neighbors.