The objective of the Soil Information Areas (SIS) is to better consider soil pollution in future developments. They identify land where knowledge of soil pollution justifies, particularly in case of change of use, soil studies and pollution management measures to protect public safety, health, and the environment. Each SIS includes state information on soil pollution and a cadastral map.
These SIS are established by prefectural decree, in accordance with Article 173 of the ALUR law and L.125-6 of the Environmental Code, after consulting the concerned municipalities and the public. Owners of affected plots are informed by mail about the public consultation procedures. The implementation of SIS began in 2016, mainly concerning pollution from former industries. The removal of a plot listed in SIS is conditional on rehabilitation work.
Once finalized, SIS are annexed to the Local Urban Plan (PLU) or its equivalent. Obtaining a building or development permit on land located in an SIS is conditional on the presence of a certificate issued by a certified study office, guaranteeing that soil studies have been conducted and taken into account in the project design.
SIS can be consulted on the Géorisques website. The information for buyers/tenants (IAL) on natural, mining, and technological risks is supplemented by the SIS file containing soil pollution information. In the context of the 2nd wave of SIS creation in Hérault, 5 creation/modification projects have been submitted across 4 municipalities. Owners of affected land are informed by mail about public participation methods.
