Press Release - National Land Agency advises on the process of acquiring Crown Lands (Government of Jamaica) in Jamaica

The National Land Agency (NLA) wishes to advise that the process of acquiring Crown Lands (Government Lands) in Jamaica is a multi-layered approach, and the process requires a detailed comprehension of all the elements involved.

Who owns Crown Land in Jamaica?
In contemporary Jamaica, what is often referred to as “Crown Lands” is actually land owned and managed by the Jamaican government. This land is used for various public purposes, including national parks, government buildings, infrastructure, and public services. Crown Lands are vested
in the Commissioner of Lands, and the National Land Agency (NLA) manages these assets.

How are these lands divested?
The Policy Framework and Procedures Manual for the Divestment of Government-owned lands 2015, which sets out the guidelines for the NLA to divest these lands governs all dealings with Crown Land. An applicant interested in purchasing Crown Land is required to complete the
prescribed application form and return same to the National Land Agency for processing.

Please note that the process involves dialogue with key stakeholders, who may have beneficial interest in the property themselves. This property may be reserved for future public use, such as the construction of a school, police station, hospital, etc.

Other stakeholders would be asked to comment on the proposal, based on their statutory authority, such as the Municipal Corporations, the National Environment and Planning Agency, etc., while some will be asked based on the proximity of the proposal to their operations, such as a police station, school, etc.

Where lands are vacant and can be made available for divestment, they are advertised in accordance with the GOJ’s Land Divestment Policy, unless the applicant meets the criteria to be classified as a special case applicant, as per the said policy.

To whom are Crown Lands divested?
Crown Lands are divested to Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs), as well as private entities and citizens.

Enquiries relating to applications for land
The NLA receives numerous applications and enquiries for land. However, not all lands can be made available for divestment as the NLA will prioritize the interest of government entities, as they act in the interest of the public.
The list of Government of Jamaica Assignment of Subjects and Departments, Agencies and other Public Bodies (April 1, 2024) can be found on the website of the Office of the Cabinet:http://cabinet.gov.jm.

END