Moscow allows limited construction in its green areas

Green areas are special land plots, such as forests and parks, that Moscow acquired on 22 August 2012 through government decree no. 424-PP. The decree recognized the green areas as having a positive impact in protecting the climate and the environment as a whole, providing fresh air and water, and serving recreational needs.

Until now, the Moscow government decree no. 423-PP, dated 22 August 2012, and titled Special protected green areas in the City of Moscow, prohibited any alterations to the green areas and restricted construction in them that was not related to their preservation.

On 22 October 2014, the Moscow government adopted regulation no. 616-PP that changed the types of activities it permits in the green areas. Now, in addition to maintaining existing utilities in the green areas, Moscow is permitting new electrical and communication lines, pipelines, and buildings related to the new infrastructure. Otherwise, the regulation prohibits any type of construction in the forested areas adjoined to Moscow in 2012, “except for the activities specified in a resolution of the government of Moscow.”

This regulation greatly simplifies the procedure for developers to obtain permission to construct linear infrastructure not only in the newly annexed territories but also in other protected green areas within the Ring Road.