Student List proposes major changes for land and property owners in Serbia

The programme also proposes mandatory energy performance certificates for property sales, stronger environmental protections and greater public participation in urban planning.

Construction ban in flood-prone areas

One of the programme's key measures is a ban on new construction in flood-prone areas, alongside the removal of existing illegally constructed buildings in those locations.

"This may be a difficult measure, but people's safety must take priority over the value of any building," the Student List stated.

Agricultural land, forests and water-related land would receive stronger protection against uncontrolled urban development.

The legalisation of existing buildings would only be permitted where it complies with planning regulations and environmental requirements.

Landowners could face new obligations

The programme proposes that part of the increase in land value resulting from changes to urban planning regulations should be returned to the community.

The measure would apply when land becomes more valuable because of planning decisions rather than investments made by its owner.

Mandatory energy certificates for property sales

Under the proposal, every property sale would require an energy performance certificate.

The aim is to provide buyers with clear information about a building's energy efficiency and expected heating costs before purchasing a property.

Investment in water and sewage infrastructure

The Student List also plans to prioritise settlements lacking reliable drinking water supplies or adequate wastewater treatment.

Mandatory standards would be introduced for schools, healthcare centres and social care facilities, covering capacity, accessibility and public transport connections.

These measures are intended to ensure access to essential services, including in communities that attract little private investment.

New spatial planning rules and more green spaces

The programme calls for a new national Spatial Plan for Serbia, which the movement says has been missing for six years.

It also proposes strengthening smaller and medium-sized towns and introducing the principle of "spatial justice" into planning legislation.

A digital register of green spaces would be established, alongside minimum requirements for greenery and permeable surfaces on development plots.

Minimum green space per resident would also be introduced, while new roads would be accompanied by double rows of trees.

Greater public involvement in urban planning

Every proposed planning amendment would require a public participation plan, a citizen-friendly summary and a reasoned response to submitted objections.

Municipalities would establish dedicated public participation units, while architects, planners and other professional groups would be allowed to form independent professional chambers.

New restrictions for data centres

The Student List proposes selecting locations for energy facilities and data centres based on suitability assessments.

Data centres would also face measurable limits on water and electricity consumption, aimed at reducing pressure on local infrastructure and natural resources.