Have you just inherited a forest or a wood? What are your options?
In Belgium, forests currently cover 23% of the national territory, or just over 700,000 ha. Of these forests, 53% of the wooded land is owned by private landowners. With an average of 2.5 hectares per owner and a population of over 100,000 owners, owning woodland is becoming increasingly popular.
In most cases, the acquisition of woodland comes about through inheritance. Whilst such an inheritance is sometimes accompanied by the passing on of knowledge and responsibilities, the new owner is often unaware of the woodland’s value or significance. Yet the implications of owning a plot of woodland have never been greater: growing demand for timber, the protection of biodiversity, the commitment to sustainable development…
Are you interested in selling a woodland plot? Find out everything you need to know to ensure a successful sale in this article.
Woodland or forest – what’s the difference?
The terms ‘woodland’ and ‘forest’ refer to a certain area of land planted with trees, comprising species that can grow to a height of more than 5 metres and covering an area of at least 50 ares. The difference between the two lies in their size (area). Have you just inherited a forest or a woodland? What are your options?
Although a wooded area cannot be developed, it can, however, be sold. If you have just inherited a wooded plot or forest, you have several options available to you:
- If you’re keen to embark on this new adventure: with the necessary knowledge and the time to devote to it, managing a forest can be a fascinating and, above all, profitable endeavour in the long term.
- You’re already an expert: whether through experience or training, you’ve got the knowledge in this field – all you need to do now is get started.
- You know nothing about the industry and aren’t interested in it: if this plot of woodland falls into your hands and you have no interest in it, the best option is to sell it.
If you don’t have the time or inclination to look after your woodland, don’t just leave it to go to waste. Selling your property can enable others to devote themselves fully to it and make the most of it.
Please note that the value of woodland can vary considerably depending on the species present, the age of the stands and the quality of the soil. It is therefore not easy to set prices yourself.
Forest area: What does this entail?
Forest areas, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance, account for a significant proportion of the land in regions such as Wallonia. Governed by specific provisions such as Article D.II.37 of the CoDT (Territorial Development Code), they are not, in principle, designated for urban development. However, in certain cases, they may accommodate facilities necessary for forestry operations and woodland management.
The sale of woodland: a specialised market
It is legally possible to sell land in a forest area, although building on such land is subject to significant restrictions. The value of such land may lie in its potential for forestry or conservation.
Contrary to popular belief, it is rarely possible to build a cabin or similar structure on land within a forested area. Investing in the timber trade means having to comply with strict rules that depend largely on local and regional regulations. Consequently, enthusiasts wishing to build homes in woodland areas often have to revise their plans in light of these restrictions.
Furthermore, plots of land with buildings erected before 1962 or authorised between 1962 and 1976 offer an opportunity for regularisation, paving the way for certain types of renovation or extension. This is a crucial point for owners wishing to increase the value of their property.
Building without planning permission: special cases
In certain situations, it is permitted to carry out building works without requiring planning permission: hunting hides, small shelters, temporary facilities for receiving the public, or storage buildings. However, it remains essential to check with the relevant local authorities before undertaking such construction work.
However, leisure accommodation projects may be considered as part of regional schemes aimed at enhancing the value of forest areas. Such projects must be designed so as not to cause irreversible damage to the area’s ecosystem.
In conclusion: A job for the experts
Buying or selling land in forested areas, as well as carrying out construction projects on such land, requires a thorough understanding of local regulations. To successfully navigate the complexities of the forest property market, it is often advisable to draw on the expertise of specialist agencies such as Comptoir Foncier, which can offer bespoke support to maximise the value of these unique properties.
Would you like to embark on this journey? Get in touch with us so we can provide you with the expertise you need to sell your plot of land!