No, squatting in Italy is a criminal offense under Article 633 of the Italian Penal Code, punishable by up to three years imprisonment or fines. The 2026 Decreto Sicurezza amendments strengthen enforcement, requiring immediate eviction upon judicial verification of unlawful occupation. Local Questure (police headquarters) and municipal Ufficio Giudiziario units prioritize expedited proceedings to deter repeat offenses.
Key Regulations for Squatting in Italy
- Article 633 (Penal Code): Criminalizes unlawful occupation of residential or commercial properties, mandating eviction within 48 hours of judicial confirmation.
- 2026 Decreto Sicurezza: Expands police powers to seize occupied properties preemptively and imposes stricter penalties for organized squatting rings.
- Municipal Ordinances: Cities like Rome and Milan enforce additional Regolamenti Comunali to fast-track evictions, with mayors authorized to deploy municipal police for immediate intervention.
Legal exceptions exist for usucapione (adverse possession) claims, but these require 20+ years of continuous, uninterrupted occupation with documented proof of exclusive use—rarely applicable in urban contexts. Property owners must file denuncia di occupazione abusiva with local authorities to trigger legal proceedings. Courts prioritize cases under the 2026 amendments, reducing procedural delays. Non-compliance risks escalation to tutela penale (criminal protection) for owners.