WILLEMSTAD - Recently, PTH conducted a control in the Sun Set Heights area and found illegal construction in a conservation area ('conserveringsgebied'). PTH issued a written warning to the owner in this case, in accordance with article 9 paragraph 4 of Curaçao's 'Eilandelijk Ontwikkelingsplan Curaçao' EOP (A.B. 1995, 36).
According to this law, it is prohibited to construct in a conservation area without a construction permit granted by the Minister of Traffic, Transportation, and Urban Planning (VVRP).
This law also stipulates that the Government may impose a fine of 2500 guilders for construction in the conservation area by those who are found guilty of unauthorized construction.
The owner of the construction presented himself before the Magistrate, after receiving his written warning, and the Magistrate ruled that the fine of 2500 guilders remains valid. The owner must now pay for the act of constructing in the conservation area.
According to article 32 paragraph 1 of our Spatial Development Planning Ordinance for Curaçao (EROC AB 1990, no. 6), the maximum fine for this type of action is 5000 guilders. A maximum penalty of 2 months' imprisonment can also be imposed.
PTH appeals to the community to build in accordance with regulations. Ensure to have the construction permit before starting work, and also that the land is designated and suitable for construction.