Changes to the 'waste' fee in Dimitrovgrad: earlier deadlines and new signature requirements

The Municipality of Dimitrovgrad is preparing changes to Ordinance No. 10, which will change the way property owners apply for exemption from the household waste fee. The proposal, which is pending a vote by the Municipal Council, affects those who do not use their properties throughout the year.

Earlier deadline
One of the main changes is the shifting of the deadline for submitting a declaration. Instead of December 31, the new deadline will be October 31 of the previous year. This means that if an owner plans not to use their property in 2027, they must declare this no later than the end of October 2026.

Requirement for signatures from all co-owners
The new declaration form also introduces stricter rules regarding co-ownership. To be valid, the document must be signed by all owners or persons with a right of use. This may create administrative challenges for properties with multiple heirs, especially if some of them live in other cities or abroad.

More control and sanctions
The draft also provides for increased control over the declared data. Municipal revenue authorities will conduct inspections, and if false information is established, owners will be fined. In such a case, the previously exempted fee will have to be paid in full along with statutory interest.

According to the municipality, the changes are necessary to bring the local regulations into alignment with the Law on Local Taxes and Fees and the practice of administrative courts. The draft was presented for public discussion without any incoming opinions from citizens.