Expat Community > Chile

FAIRCLOUGH
Joined 2015
Posts: 111

Illegal deforestation

6 years ago

Two years ago we bought a beautiful property in Pucon with a view of the lake and thick rows of trees around the perimeter of our property to isolate our yards from the neighbors. While we were out of town for a few weeks, the landowner uphill of our back yard enterd our property and cut down a large number of trees so he could sell his lots with a view of the lake for higher prices. Large part of the timber was stolen and the branches left behind. The surrounding neighbors assure me this is not a standard thing here. They are apalled and they called the carabineros who filed a criminal report. Here there are three approaches that we are now considering with an attorney.
A criminal suit for illegal entry and damage to our property.
B civil suit to recover cost of re-planting.
C file a report with forestry for illegal removal of native species of trees.
I havebeen repeatedly assured that this is not a common practice and that the consequences could lead to the perpetrator having a criminal record or if he already has a criminal record it could mean jail time.
Chileans take their forestry seriously and trust me, you do not want to go to jail in Chile. As a result, crime is extremely low here, we live without bars on our windows or doors, without alarm systems or patrolling. we want to keep it that way.

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Living in Chile Guide

Expats in Chile enjoy the stable economy, friendly people and relatively affordable cost-of-living. Many find becoming close friends with Chileans, who primarily socialize with family, a big challenge.

Chile Forum
Join our Chile forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Chile.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Chile.

Best Places to Live in Chile

If you're dreaming about living in Chile, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Chile in 2023.

Healthcare in Chile

After considering their individual health, Expats moving to Chile should carefully consider the health care options where they'll live, and what else is available in the immediate vicinity.

Cost of Living in Chile

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Chile.

Moving to Chile Guide

If you're moving to Chile, this is a must-read article that covers it all - best places to live, healthcare, earthquakes, driving permits, schools and more.