Property and water rights regularization initiatives in Chile and Argentina

In Chile, the Environment, Climate Change, and National Assets Commission, led by Senator Sergio Gahona, has approved a project to establish an extraordinary mechanism for regularizing small real estate properties following catastrophes. The initiative aims to reduce the average processing time from 26 months to approximately 6 months. It also provides total cost waivers for victims verified through the Basic Emergency File (FIBE), covering expenses such as surveys, certificates, and registrations. Additionally, the project promotes interoperability between state agencies to eliminate manual paperwork.

In Argentina, the General Irrigation Department in Mendoza has established a special mechanism to regularize private neighborhoods and subdivisions that were approved by municipalities but failed to complete water feasibility procedures. Developers and owners have a 12-month deadline to apply for this simplified process, applicable to subdivisions authorized until October 13, 2026. To receive final certification, developers must complete mandatory works, including lining or piping irrigation ditches, creating independent systems for public greenery irrigation, and ensuring storm drains do not discharge into irrigation networks.