Ukraine has introduced "blue lines" to limit the height of buildings - this should be spelled out in the general plans of settlements

On September 1, new state building codes (DBN "Planning and Development of Territories") came into effect, which, among other things, introduced a rule limiting the height of buildings in Ukrainian settlements.

These are the blue lines that regulate the silhouette and height of buildings and help maintain the harmonious appearance of cities. This was announced by Lev Partskhaladze, Deputy Minister of Regional Development, Construction, Housing and Communal Services of Ukraine.

"Building height restriction lines - the so-called "blue lines" - have been successfully operating in most European countries and around the world for a long time, and since September 1, this norm has become mandatory in Ukraine. This means that the development of master plans for settlements should include a separate section on blue lines. They are necessary to regulate the silhouette and height of urban development, and to maintain the harmonious appearance of settlements. Previously, there were no such restrictions, which is why cities are being built up chaotically. This needs to be changed," he said.

Mr. Partskhaladze emphasized that local authorities should pay special attention to these innovations. "The height of buildings in accordance with the new standards should be determined by local authorities. And this should be spelled out in the master plan. Zoning remains an important issue as well, as it can qualitatively resolve the problems of cities in terms of harmonious development," he emphasized.

The DBN "Planning and Development of Territories" was developed to replace the previous building codes governing urban development, which had been in effect since 1992.

State building codes (SBC) are binding regulations that are used in the design of new and reconstruction of existing buildings, neighborhoods, and districts in accordance with their purpose.

Image: ydabk.if.ua

Blue line is a boundary that marks the elevation line of a built-up area, block, etc. It has been formed historically and is preserved in the process of reconstructing the protected areas of modern cities. Sometimes the term blue line is used. In Ukraine, the concept of the blue line is enshrined in law.

Green lines limit construction in green areas, i.e. in parks, forests, and nature reserves. Previously, the DBN did not restrict the development of green areas.

The yellow lines limit the area of possible building collapse so that people can evacuate in an emergency. They are necessary to prevent the closure of major roads and highways in case of building collapse or other emergencies. The closer a building is to evacuation routes, the lower its height should be.

Ігор Льов