Those who build apartment blocks illegally to face liability under new proposals

Uzbekistan is planning to tighten liability measures for the unauthorized construction of multi-apartment residential buildings. This was discussed today, January 13, at a regular session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.

During the session, a draft law aimed at further improving state oversight and governance in ensuring the earthquake resistance and seismic safety of buildings and structures was considered in its first reading and approved.

The draft law proposes relevant amendments to the Code of Administrative Responsibility, introducing administrative liability for the unauthorized construction of multi-apartment residential buildings. It is also proposed to establish criminal liability if such violations are committed repeatedly.

The draft law was developed to prevent illegal construction in the country, meet the population’s housing needs, and reduce violations in the field of urban development.

It was emphasized at the session that cases of unauthorized construction of residential buildings without permission from competent authorities continue to occur, and that seismic safety requirements are not fully observed at some sites, making it necessary to further strengthen state governance in the sector.

At the same time, the Urban Planning Code is being amended to закрепить the concept of a “master plan” as a separate type of urban planning document. According to the parliament’s press service, this document will serve to address specific territorial problems, integrate urban planning, socio-economic and environmental solutions, and plan short-, medium- and long-term territorial development.

In addition, the draft law provides for abolishing the practice of granting construction licenses with unlimited validity periods for bridges, tunnels, and other high-risk facilities, as well as transitioning from a notification-based procedure to a permit-based system for commencing construction and installation works.