Note: This service (805) is identical to service 579 ("Endangered Species"). To create unique content, we will focus here on Protected Areas and Habitat Management, which is an integral part of protected species law.
Protected species and areas law regulates the management regime of nature reserves, national parks, sanctuaries, and natural monuments in Georgia. Protected areas are established to preserve unique ecosystems and species. Economic activities are strictly limited or prohibited in these zones. However, sustainable use, including eco-tourism and traditional agriculture, is allowed in certain categories of areas (e.g., protected landscape, multiple-use area). Legal services in this field are needed by investors wishing to set up eco-tourism infrastructure in protected areas, as well as landowners whose plots fall within a protected zone.
What Does Protected Areas Legal Service Cover?
Our experts assist in resolving legal issues related to protected areas:
- Lease and Concession: Leasing land or infrastructure from the Agency of Protected Areas for tourism purposes via auction.
- Zoning Regulations: Analysis of zoning (visitor zone, administrative zone) and permitted activities in a specific protected area.
- Construction Permit: Obtaining permits for placing light structures or eco-cottages in a protected area.
- Traditional Use Zone: Legal regulation of activities permitted for the local population (mowing, grazing).
- Natural Monuments: Assessing activity restrictions near a natural monument (e.g., cave, canyon).
- Boundary Demarcation: Disputes regarding protected area boundaries and protecting private property in case of overlap.
Common Scenarios and Needs
With the development of tourism, interest in setting up hotels and campsites in national parks is growing. Investors need help signing lease agreements and fulfilling environmental obligations. Conflicts are frequent when private land is enclosed within a protected area, restricting the owner from building a house or cutting trees. Also, infrastructure projects (roads, pipelines) sometimes cross protected areas, requiring legislative changes or special permits.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
The field is regulated by the "Law on the System of Protected Areas" and the law establishing each specific protected area. Management regimes are outlined in management plans approved by the government. The territories are managed by the Agency of Protected Areas.
The Process: How a Specialist Works
The lawyer checks the management plan of the specific protected area and determines what types of activities are allowed in the zone of interest. If a tourist facility is planned, an investment proposal is prepared for the Agency. In case of a land boundary dispute, the lawyer works with cartographic materials and appeals to the Public Registry or court.
Why Legal.ge?
Doing business in protected areas is possible but requires strict adherence to regulations. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who know the specifics of protected areas and Agency procedures. Specialists on our platform will help you develop eco-tourism legally and safely. Discover business opportunities in nature with Legal.ge.
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