Judgment No. 29117 of 2024: the principle of proportionality in the demolition order of illegal constructions

The judgment No. 29117 of April 17, 2024, issued by the Court of Naples, represents an important precedent in the field of building offenses and demolition orders for illegal constructions. In this context, the principle of proportionality plays a crucial role, as it requires a balance between the public interest in safeguarding the territory and the individual’s right to property. This article will explore the implications of this principle, highlighting how the jurisprudence has evolved to address socially relevant issues.

The principle of proportionality

The judgment in question establishes that the execution of the demolition order must conform to the principle of proportionality, as stated by conventional jurisprudence. This implies that, before proceeding with the demolition, an assessment of the interrelationship between the public interest and the property right of the offender must be conducted. In particular, the Court clarified that no consideration can be given to the housing interest of third parties unrelated to the owner of the illegal property.

Demolition order - Conventional principle of proportionality - Necessary verification of the existing interrelationship between public interest and private interest - Existence - Limits - Indication. In the context of building offenses, the principle of proportionality, enunciated by conventional jurisprudence, to which the execution of the demolition order for illegal constructions must conform, postulates the evaluation of the only interrelationship existing between the public interest in safeguarding the territory and the protection of the property right and related enjoyment forms of the offender or the property owner and their immediate family, with no consideration being given to the housing interest of third parties unrelated, holding, in any other capacity, the illegal construction of others, who may, if necessary, obtain other forms of satisfaction through social assistance measures or leasing lawful properties.

Legal and jurisprudential references

The Court referred to several articles of the Italian Constitution, such as Article 42, which protects the right to property, and Article 9, related to environmental protection. Additionally, articles from the European Convention on Human Rights were cited, highlighting the importance of these principles in the context of construction and the protection of individual rights. The integration of national and European regulations provides a solid legal framework for the assessment of demolition orders.

  • Article 42 of the Constitution: protection of property rights
  • Article 9 of the Constitution: environmental protection
  • Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights: right to respect for private and family life

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 29117 of 2024 represents a significant step in defining the principle of proportionality in the context of building offenses. It emphasizes the need to consider not only the public interest but also property rights and the specific circumstances of each case. This judgment invites a deeper reflection on how to manage conflicts between compliance with building regulations and individual rights, thus contributing to a constructive dialogue between the needs of urban development and the safeguarding of the territory.

Bianucci Law Firm