Public Discussion Launched
Ukraine has presented the first version of the concept of the Urban Planning Code, developed by the Working Group under the Verkhovna Rada Committee. Citizens are invited to submit proposals and comments until October 1, 2025.
The draft introduces a comprehensive reform of urban planning, covering:
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spatial planning and design,
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construction and operation of facilities,
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land management and restoration,
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environmental and heritage protection,
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transport and civil protection.
Principles of the Code
The foundation of the reform is “people-centricity”, balancing public interest, professional responsibility, and European standards such as the European Charter of Spatial Planning and the Leipzig Charter for Sustainable Urban Development.
Key provisions include:
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Flexible planning tools for cities and regions;
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Copyright protection for architects and planners;
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Professional risk insurance for industry specialists;
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Development of self-regulatory organizations in the field of urban planning;
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Competitive practices to stimulate innovation.
The approach seeks to replace punitive norms with the “morality of aspiration” — encouraging professionals to deliver the highest quality work.
Reconstruction and Heritage Protection
Special focus is given to:
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Post-war reconstruction on the principle of “better than it was”, in light of the 13% housing loss due to the war, the demographic crisis, and the shortage of qualified specialists.
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Restoration of cultural heritage damaged by Russian aggression.
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Circular economy principles to make urban development more sustainable.
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Digitalization, which is planned to permeate all areas of reform.
Strategic Importance
According to the authors, the Urban Planning Code will become a systemic legal framework that unifies existing fragmented regulations and creates economic mechanisms for urban development.
“The concept of the Urban Planning Code is a comprehensive systemic review of the legal norms that regulate the sphere of urban planning and related areas. This is a reform code that Ukrainians need,” the release emphasizes.
