Tontti

Tontti is a Finnish term for a defined parcel of land intended for construction, typically separated from streets and other public areas. It is the basic unit for building projects and is usually bounded by surveyed property lines. A tontti can be owned by an individual, a company, or a municipality, and it may be used for residential, commercial, or other purposes according to local planning rules.

Creation and planning of tontit are governed by land-use planning processes. In Finland, the use and boundaries of a tontti are determined by zoning plans, such as a general plan (yleiskaava) or a detailed plan (asemakaava). The plan specifies the allowed land use, building rights (rakennusoikeus), and other constraints. The size and shape of a tontti are defined by the plan and by cadastral measurements.

Ownership and acquisition of tontit are primarily through purchase or sale, either from the municipality, a developer, or a private seller. Some tontit are leased or sold with a long-term leasehold agreement. Property transactions are typically accompanied by due diligence on zoning, building rights, and any existing encumbrances or servitudes.

Building rights and permits are tightly regulated. To construct on a tontti, a building permit (rakennuslupa) must be obtained from the local municipality, and construction must comply with the applicable zoning plan and building codes. Local rules may set limits on building height, setbacks, and coverage, and there may be special restrictions near water bodies or protected areas.

Subdivision and restrictions can apply to a tontti. A larger parcel can be divided (lohkominen) into multiple tontit, subject to planning authority approval. Servitudes, easements, and other rights of way may affect a tontti and its use.