What is Natura 2000 and how does it affect forest?
Natura 2000 is the European Union's nature conservation network, protecting valuable habitats and species. In Estonia, approximately 17% of the territory falls within the Natura 2000 network. Many forest owners' properties are fully or partially within Natura areas.
Natura 2000 zones and their impact
| Zone type | Felling permitted? | Other management | Impact on price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strict protection zone (nature reserve) | Prohibited | Prohibited | −70–90% of market price |
| Strict protection zone (standard) | Prohibited | Very restricted | −60–80% |
| Buffer zone | Restricted (no clear-cutting) | Partially permitted | −20–50% |
| Conservation area | Requires Environmental Board approval | Partially permitted | −10–30% |
Can Natura 2000 forest be sold?
Yes. Natura restrictions do not prohibit selling the property. It can be sold to the state or to a private buyer. Metzfund buys Natura properties and offers a fair price that accounts for the restrictions.
Options with a Natura property
- Sell to a private buyer (e.g. Metzfund) — fast process, fair price accounting for restrictions
- Sell to the state — the state buys strict protection zone properties, but the process is slow (6–24 months)
- Apply for compensation — the state pays compensation for restrictions (up to 110 €/ha per year in strict protection zones)
- Hold and receive compensation — long-term option for a passive owner
State compensation in Natura areas
| Zone type | Compensation (€/ha/year) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Strict protection zone | Up to 110 € | Through PRIA |
| Buffer zone | Up to 60 € | Through PRIA |
| Conservation area | Varies | From the Environmental Board |
"Many Natura area owners assume their property is worthless. This is not true — even properties with the strictest restrictions have value, and selling to the state is always an option." — Metzfund Natura specialist
Frequently asked questions
Is the state obliged to buy my Natura property?
For strict protection zone properties, the state has pre-emption rights and in practice does buy such properties, but the waiting list can be long.
Can I sell a Natura property at market price?
The price must account for the restrictions. The market price of a strict protection zone property is significantly lower than unrestricted forest. A buffer zone property price is 20–50% below market price.
Can I receive compensation and sell the property at the same time?
Compensation is received until the sale. After the sale, the right to apply for compensation transfers to the new owner.