In Žabljak, authorities have sealed 70 illegally constructed buildings as part of an ongoing operation led by municipal and construction inspectors. The Ministry of Spatial Planning, Urbanism and State Property announced that similar inspections will continue across all municipalities where illegal construction is taking place.
According to Boško Vukićević from the Ministry, inspectors recorded 109 cases of illegal structures and issued 75 decisions, resulting in 70 buildings being sealed so far.
Due to the large number of unauthorized constructions, locals in Žabljak often joke that it is easier to find an illegal building than a legal one. Unofficial estimates suggest there are more than 3,000 such structures in the area.
The inspection targeted buildings that were erected after satellite monitoring or were under construction without compliance with new legal regulations.
Žabljak Municipal Assembly President Ivan Popović told TVCG that local authorities hope the operation will raise public awareness and discourage illegal construction.
“We hope people will start respecting the laws and regulations of Montenegro. The state is showing its strength through these actions,” Popović said.
Vukićević emphasized that the crackdown will not stop in Žabljak and will be extended to other regions across Montenegro.
“If the construction ban is violated, demolition orders will be issued,” he warned.
The inspection campaign in Žabljak is being carried out with police assistance.
Since the new Law on the Legalization of Illegal Buildings came into force, the Municipality of Žabljak has received only 15 applications for legalization.
