Planning Status
& Building Rights

The property offers exceptional development flexibility through two distinct channels: as a lögbýli and as a planned recreational development area, making it a unique opportunity to invest in Icelandic real estate.

Lögbýli (Agricultural Property Rights)

Sandur 4 is registered as a lögbýli (agricultural property) in a planned agricultural area, permitting the construction of:

  • Up to three residential houses.

  • Up to three vacation houses.

  • Additional minor structures supporting agricultural operations, outdoor activities, nature observation, or resource utilization (such as highland huts and bird watching shelters).

The municipal authority may permit additional residential and vacation houses within 300 meters of existing residential buildings, farm clusters, active business operations, or public roads, subject to neighborhood notification or detailed local planning. Whether you intend to buy land in Iceland for personal use or business, operations such as tourism services and light industry are also permitted on the property, with commercial building space limited to 1,500 m².

Planned Recreational Development Area

Within the property, a 13.4-hectare area has been designated as zone F-232 in the forthcoming municipal Aðalskipulag (master plan). This recreational development area permits the construction of up to five vacation buildings, separate from and in addition to the development rights granted under the agricultural designation. The inclusion of this zone in the new master plan creates an exciting opportunity for tourism development or private recreational use — perfect for those looking to purchase property in Iceland and explore short-term rental or eco-tourism ventures. Final approval is currently pending.

Infrastructure & Utilities

Modern infrastructure is readily accessible on the property, with an underground electrical cable running along Sandsvegur and crossing the outer boundary of the land, approximately one kilometer from the planned development areas. If you want to invest in a rural Icelandic property and still remain connected, water supply can be established through drilling, with groundwater expected at a depth of 10-20 meters. Digital connectivity is excellent, featuring both fiber optic cable availability along the main road and strong 4G mobile coverage throughout the property, making it ideal for remote work or tourism operations.

Sandur 4 - Property lines

A digital property line map is available on the Housing and Construction Authority’s Website.

Recreational Development Area

Forestry Development

The entire private land area of 51.1 hectares has received preliminary forestry approval, subject to final municipal authorization. This presents an opportunity for sustainable forestry development — a feature that may appeal to those looking to buy land in Iceland with a focus on conservation or eco-friendly projects. While the terrain varies across the property, including both prime forestry areas and lava fields with limited planting potential, there is significant scope for successful forest establishment in suitable zones.

Fishing Rights

The property's water rights include a 20% share of fishing rights along the property's stretch of Skjálfandafljót, managed through the local fishing association. Additionally, the property includes rights fishing in Miklavatn lake. These rights, while modest in their current utilization, are part of the property's traditional resource portfolio, offering further investment potential for property buyers.

Traditional Rights

The communal land includes active eider duck farming operations, and as a 20% stakeholder in the communal land, new owners would have the opportunity to participate in or develop this traditional Icelandic activity. The coastal rights include the traditional rights to driftwood and other coastal resources as defined by Icelandic law.

Environmental Features

The property encompasses a rich tapestry of ecological zones, seamlessly blending coastal areas, lava fields, fields of grass, river frontage, and lake access. This diverse landscape supports abundant bird life and creates an exceptional setting for nature-based tourism development. The variety of habitats not only enhances the property's ecological value but also provides numerous opportunities for sustainable recreational activities and nature observation.

Skjálfandi River

Lake Miklavatn