FUITH Rechtsanwälte

What does the ECJ say about cultivation requirements?

Von Mag. Martin Fuith, LL.M.

Last updated:

The ECJ held in Ospelt v Austria that proper cultivation is a sufficient condition for acquiring agricultural land. Self-cultivation is not required.

In its judgment in Ospelt v Republic of Austria, the European Court of Justice held that proper cultivation (ordentliche Bewirtschaftung) is a sufficient condition for the acquisition of agricultural and forestry land in Austria. A requirement of self-cultivation is therefore impermissible, as it would constitute a breach of the free movement of capital.