The authorities in Ghimbav, a city in Brasov county, central Romania, have found a different way to make their city more eco-friendly: they will release building permits only to those who commit to planting trees.

The local councilors recently approved a decision that obliges those who want to build something in the city, no matter if its an apartment building or a house, to plant a certain number of trees if they want to get the building permit, reports local Adevarul.

The number of trees to be planted is determined based on the type and the size of the building to be constructed. Thus, those who want to build a house will also have to plant three trees. In the case of residential buildings, those who want to get the building permit have to commit to planting one fruit tree and one tree for each apartment. Moreover, companies that build production halls have to plant one tree for every 100 sqm built.

The trees can be planted on the private property on which the construction is being built, or on the city’s public property, in special places indicated by the local authorities. Those who choose to plant trees on public property can choose from several species such as pine, oak, or chestnut. The planting must be done within six months from the moment the construction is completed.

The decision, which will come intro force starting April 1, also stipulates fines for those who fail to respect the new rules. Thus, individuals risk a fine of up to RON 1,000 (EUR 220) while the companies can receive a penalty of up to RON 3,000 (EUR 660).

Romania’s forest management company invests EUR 9.3 mln in regeneration works

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com