From Plot Boundaries to Parking Areas: What Will Change in Construction Rules Starting December 1

Starting December 1, new construction rules come into effect in Belarus. For example, requirements for placing residential houses and outbuildings on land plots are changing. They concern only new construction. Of course, what has already been built will not be altered. In other words, a house can now be built no closer than three meters from the boundary of a neighboring plot, and outbuildings (garages, sheds, bathhouses) – no closer than two. Container sites for waste cannot be located within 20 meters of windows of residential houses, nor near schools, kindergartens, hospitals, shops, cafes, playgrounds, according to ONT.

There are many new provisions. Their essence lies in trying to order and concretize those issues that currently cause many disputes, arguments, and complaints.

From Fence to Dispute

Speaking of fences, if anything, they could be moved aside, but what about constructions? Those same 1.5 square meters increasingly become the source of conflict. Especially in the villages.

Alexander Romanchik, deputy chairman of the Pukhovichi district administration:

"Such plots were mostly allocated in the 1970s and 1980s, and their width was quite narrow, 10, 11, 12, 15 meters, and fitting a modern house under such conditions is very problematic. There are cases where people go to neighbors, seek agreements and permits, and build at smaller sizes. Yes, there are some who simply won't make concessions... We do try to resolve them, we call them over, talk with one side, but when it becomes impossible, then only court."

Belarusians by nature are non-litigious people. Up until recently, they always tried to agree, find common ground. Although someone might hide their axe behind their ear. If you want to build, clarify how to do so legally.

Ilya Sobolev, correspondent:

"The principle 'in closeness, but not in offense' is working less and less often. Agreed with one owner, after which that owner sold his plot, and the new owner is already opposed to such close proximity. Finding a compromise is extremely difficult in such cases, and fire safety regulations have not been abolished."

After all, the closer the houses and constructions are to each other, the higher the probability that in case of a fire, flames may spread to neighbors. Those who receive such plots through inheritance or purchase more and more often desire the "I am in my own home" format.

Valeria Krukovich, consultant from the urban planning department of the Main Architecture Directorate of the Ministry of Architecture and Construction:

I am purchasing a land plot that already has a residential house and utility structures located less than the normative distance—less than 2 meters and less than 3 meters. Moreover, the previous land user had obtained a notarized consent for constructing such facilities at a distance below the normative. However, that notarized consent does not extend to new legal relations.

What will happen to already built houses

Angelina Syromyatnikova, deputy of the House of Representatives: "This question is most often raised by voters. The adoption of amendments to the resolution will not automatically entail a requirement to demolish or relocate this building. However, you should understand that in the case of reconstruction, expansion toward the neighboring plot will no longer be possible. That is, you will no longer be able to add a veranda, kitchen, or porch with a canopy. Citizens who are currently in the construction stage and have already obtained a notarized consent from the neighboring land user must, by December 1, amend their project documentation. After December 1, they will no longer have this right."

Where to measure the distance from the plot boundary

And attention, experts – the main question. So where should we measure from now? And what setback is required by law?

Valeria Krukович: "The distance from the boundary of the adjacent land use should be measured from the plinth or from any other vertical enclosing structure. Previously, it was measured from the foundation, but that is

Yards without parking lots and driveways in Grodno have been a reality for ten years now. Entire microdistricts are built in such a way that there are no cars under the windows; all vehicles remain on the outer perimeter. Inside, as soon as you step out of the entrance, there is a wide sidewalk (which also serves as an access road for emergency vehicles in case of an emergency), a playground, exercise equipment, and green zones. The traffic flows are separated! This is pleasing to people, and, it turns out, it works out economically. The area and costs are comparable, and savings are made on asphalt and curbs.

Oleg Volkonovsky, chief architect of the project management office of the "Grodnozhilstroy" enterprise:

"The situation has improved, first and foremost, for the residents of the residential buildings in the microdistrict. From the perspective of design and construction, we observe no complications. The new scheme, taking safety into account, will be used going forward, to be developed, and we are unlikely to return to the old approach."

Where to place waste disposal sites

And regarding these, there is also something new! Now, they must not be located closer than 20 meters from the windows of residential buildings, playgrounds, schools, kindergartens, hospitals, shops, and catering establishments.

Irina Goroshko, head of the master plan workshop of the enterpr...