Erikasutus

Erikasutus is a term used in Estonian public administration and law to refer to the use of a resource, area, or object under special rights or permissions that exceed ordinary use. It denotes situations where standard access is restricted and a separate authorization is required, reflecting the balance between various public and private interests.

The concept is applied to cases involving land, water bodies, mineral resources, or protected areas. The exact scope and procedures depend on the applicable legislation, including laws on land use, environmental protection, and resource management. Erikasutus generally concerns uses that may have significant or long-term effects on the environment, economy, or communities, and thus require regulated permissions.

Typically, erikasutus is granted through an administrative decision or license. An applicant describes the intended use, geographic extent, and duration, and the competent authority may demand environmental or social impact assessments, consultations, or specified conditions to mitigate effects. Permits can be temporary or long-term and are subject to renewal, modification, or revocation if conditions are not met.

Examples of erikasutus include activities tied to military training areas, sites hosting critical infrastructure, areas allocated for scientific research, or other uses with substantial impact on ecosystems or local residents. The concept functions as a legal tool to regulate specialized uses while protecting public interests and ensuring orderly land and resource management.

Etymology: the term derives from erika (special) and kasutus (use). See also land use planning and environmental permitting.