Not only property tax. Homeowners face a new responsibility

Not all property owners know that constructing a terrace, driveway or other hardened elements on the plot may involve additional costs. However, the obligation does not result from the investment itself, but from the provisions of water law regarding the limitation of natural land retention.

The fee for reducing natural land retention is one of the fees for water services. It is charged when the development of the plot limits the ability of the ground to naturally retain rainwater.

Fee for reducing natural land retention

The obligation to pay arises only when several conditions are met simultaneously. The plot must have an area exceeding 3,500 m², more than 70%. its biologically active surface must be excluded from natural retention, and the property cannot be covered by a functioning open or closed sewage system.

Biologically active surface includes areas enabling natural plant vegetation and retention of rainwater. If the hardening of the plot in the form of a terrace, driveway or other elements exceeds the statutory threshold, the owner may be obliged to pay a fee.

What does the fee amount depend on?

The regulations cover not only real estate owners, but also independent owners, perpetual usufructuaries and persons in possession of real estate belonging to the State Treasury or local government units. The exemption is provided for, among others: for churches, other religious associations and maritime offices.

The amount of the fee depends on the area excluded from the biologically active surface and the retention solutions used. Settlements are carried out quarterly, and information on the amount of the fee is provided by the commune head, mayor or city president. The payment must be made within 14 days of receiving the information. In the event of non-payment, the authority may issue an administrative decision, charge default interest and initiate enforcement proceedings. Filing a complaint does not suspend the obligation to pay the fee.