STATE LAND USE AND SALES: A CASE STUDY OF KAUNAS DISTRICT

Abstract

This article analyzes the sales of state-owned land and the use of state-owned land in the Kaunas District Municipality during the 2020–2025 period. The aim of the study is to analyze the sales and use of state-owned land in the Kaunas District Municipality. The study applies quantitative statistical analysis. Comparative, logical, and systematic analysis methods were used when analyzing the collected data. During the study, it was found that during the 2020–2025 period, the number of state-owned land plots registered in Kaunas under state ownership increased from 3,822 to 4,578, i.e., by 756 units (19.8%), while the total area grew from 41,326.2 ha to 43,029.9 ha (4.12%). The number of state land sales contracts in the Kaunas district changed consistently up to 2024 – from 325 contracts in 2020 to 355 contracts in 2024. The area of land sold ranged from 61.73 ha to 93.59 ha. The 2025 statistics recorded a particularly large increase in sales contracts and the area of land sold (14,320 contracts and 7,637.99 ha), which is likely related to changes in administrative or registration processes. Therefore, this data should be interpreted cautiously. Between 2020 and 2025, the number of state land use inspections carried out in the Kaunas district municipality decreased from 212 to 43. During the 2020–2025 period, inspections decreased in the Kaunas district municipality, but the number of violations remained high. Therefore, ensuring rational land use remains relevant.