Pyrénées-Orientales: Fight Against Illegal Construction on Agricultural Land

Perpignan – 21.06.2026: In the southern French department of Pyrénées-Orientales, illegal construction on agricultural land is becoming an increasing problem. The term “Cabanisation” refers to unauthorized buildings such as mobile homes, huts, and caravans erected on agricultural or natural areas. This practice poses not only an environmental threat but also a risk to the safety of residents, especially in areas prone to flooding or wildfires.

The causes of “Cabanisation” are varied. On one hand, the region attracts more than 5,000 new residents annually, increasing pressure on the housing market. On the other hand, agricultural plots are often small and inexpensive, facilitating acquisition and illegal construction. This is compounded by a lack of affordable housing and low incomes among many households.

Authorities have implemented various measures to combat this phenomenon. In October 2024, an updated “Charter for Mobilization and Coordination in the Fight Against Cabanisation” was adopted to improve cooperation between local authorities, the prefecture, and other stakeholders. Additionally, in March 2024, a new “Guide to Combating Cabanisation” was published, providing municipalities with practical tools to proactively address illegal construction. This includes enhanced monitoring of land transactions and informing potential buyers about existing building prohibitions in certain zones.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains tense. In 2025, 22 forced evictions of illegally constructed buildings were carried out, and 145 cases of regularization were completed, where owners restored the land to its original condition following official orders. These figures reflect the ongoing challenge faced by authorities.

“Cabanisation” also has social impacts: Illegal buildings often result in unsafe living conditions and negatively affect residents’ quality of life. Additionally, such locations may serve as starting points for illegal activities like drug cultivation.

The Prefecture of Pyrénées-Orientales emphasizes the necessity of joint efforts from all involved parties to sustainably curtail illegal construction. Improved guidelines and intensified cooperation between municipalities and state agencies aim to significantly reduce “Cabanisation.” However, it remains a complex task requiring rigorous and coordinated measures.

Overall, the situation in the Pyrénées-Orientales highlights the importance of both preventive and repressive strategies to ensure the protection of agricultural land, the environment, and the population. Only through collective action by all stakeholders can this growing problem be effectively addressed.