Määruste

Määrus is the term used in Estonia for a formal regulatory act issued by a government authority to detail or implement provisions of statutes and to regulate specific matters within the issuer’s competence. The plural form is määrused.

In the Estonian legal system, a määrus is a subordinate normative act. It must be grounded in a law (seadus) and fall within the powers delegated to the issuing authority. Määrused bind individuals, organizations, and public authorities, and they spell out concrete rules, procedures, rights, and duties as provided by the higher act.

Määrused are published in the official gazette, Riigi Teataja, and they typically come into force on the date stated in the text or on the date of publication, with any transitional provisions outlined if applicable. They may specify implementation details such as definitions, standards, procedural steps, timelines, and sanctions for non-compliance.

Drafting and adoption usually occur within the relevant ministry or administrative agency. The process may include impact assessment, internal approval, and, in some cases, public consultation, depending on the regulatory framework and significance of the measure.

Määrused can be amended or repealed by the same or a higher authority, and they are subject to legal controls. Administrative courts may review their legality, and, if inconsistent with higher law or constitutional provisions, they can be challenged or struck down.

In practice, määrused are essential tools for administrative governance, ensuring consistent application of laws across agencies and public services in areas such as health, safety, education, environment, and regulation of professional activities.