Unused building plots in Burgenland fall to 30 percent

The share of vacant building plots in Burgenland has fallen from 38 percent in 2021 to 30 percent, ORF reports. The state government introduced an annual levy to encourage owners to build on their land rather than hold it as an investment.

The levy depends on the value of the plot. Numerous exemptions apply, including the option to reserve one building plot for each child and grandchild. Fewer than 10 percent of affected landowners are required to pay. After exemptions, about 12,000 plots remain liable for the levy, owned by around 7,500 individuals and 240 legal entities, such as limited liability companies.

The levy has been collected since this year, initially for 2024, and has raised about 3 million euros so far. The money goes towards infrastructure, with half allocated to municipalities. State councillor Heinrich Dorner of the Social Democratic Party said the policy was intended to bring unused, serviced plots onto the market, rather than raise revenue.

About 400 owners have signed agreements with municipalities to build within three years or sell their plots. If an owner cannot find a buyer, the municipality can propose one. Around 80 people have challenged the levy at the state administrative court, which has ruled in favour of the state in 20 cases.