The measure, first introduced in 2019 following the Pedrógão Grande fires, had never been implemented. According to Journal das Negócios, it is now being revived through amendments to the simplified cadastral system and the Single Property Desk (BUPi).

This initiative aims to identify and organise rural or mixed-use plots that appear in tax records but have no identifiable or officially registered owner.

Under the new framework, authorities will begin by cross-checking information held by the Tax Authority and the land registry. Where ownership cannot be established, the land will be publicly advertised for 180 days, giving potential owners the opportunity to submit claims.

If no objections are raised, the property will be provisionally registered in the State’s name, with the status remaining in place for up to 15 years, after which the land may become part of the State’s permanent assets if no valid ownership claim is made.

During the provisional registration period, management of the land may be assigned to public bodies such as Florestgal, which will be able to lease or commercially manage the properties under fixed-term agreements.

However, legitimate owners will retain the right to reclaim their land at any stage during the 15-year period, provided they can prove ownership, and they will also be entitled to recover any revenue generated from the land, minus any management or investment costs incurred.