SAFER Right of Pre-emption

17th Mar 2026

A French court recently considered the right of an owner to withdraw from a sale over a pre-emption by the French rural land agency, SAFER.

SAFER’s right of pre-emption to buy is a cornerstone of French agricultural policy, designed to prevent land speculation and support new farmers and their powers have increased in recent years.

Most rural property sales are subject to prior consideration by SAFER. This is one of the main reasons why sales of rural homes take around three months to complete. A similar right exists for local councils, mainly in connection with urban properties.

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SAFER’s right of pre-emption to buy is a cornerstone of French agricultural policy, designed to prevent land speculation and support new farmers and their powers have increased in recent years.