Ukraine has updated state building regulations for preschool education institutions. The new rules provide for more flexible approaches to designing kindergartens, the development of a barrier-free environment, harmonization with European standards, and the possibility of creating smaller-capacity institutions. The new regulations will come into effect on October 1, 2026, reports UNN citing the Ministry of Education and Science.
A more flexible approach to building kindergartens
As noted by the Ministry of Education and Science, the update of state building regulations was initiated jointly with the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development. Their goal is to make the design of preschool education institutions simpler, more modern, and safer, as well as to bring Ukrainian requirements in line with new legislation and European approaches.
One of the key changes will be the abandonment of overly strict requirements in favor of more flexible solutions. In particular, the possibilities for using multifunctional spaces are expanding, which should simplify the construction of new kindergartens, the reconstruction of existing buildings, and their adaptation for preschool education institutions.
In addition, the new regulations will allow for the design of kindergartens with smaller capacity. The ministry notes that this will contribute to the development of a network of preschool institutions in small communities and densely built-up areas.
European standards and barrier-free access
A separate block of changes concerns the harmonization of Ukrainian requirements with European standards. The document takes into account modern approaches to air quality and ventilation, thermal and acoustic comfort, safe use of glass, as well as the arrangement of playgrounds.
The updated state building regulations also integrate requirements for creating a barrier-free educational environment. In particular, the principles of universal design should ensure the accessibility of institutions for all children, regardless of their individual needs and capabilities.
"The new building regulations open up new opportunities for modern architectural solutions in educational institutions that previously lacked clear regulatory framework. The document takes into account various typologies of playgrounds, approaches to space organization and natural lighting, while establishing clear safety requirements, which allows for the implementation of innovative solutions without compromising child protection," the Ministry of Education and Science noted.
Who the new rules apply to
The updated building regulations will apply to municipal and private preschool education institutions during new construction, reconstruction, and major repairs. At the same time, already built kindergartens will not need to be rebuilt if no corresponding construction work is carried out on them.
When the regulations will come into effect
The ministry emphasized that the new state building regulations will come into effect on October 1, 2026. If the project and estimate documentation is already ready, it is important for clients to undergo expert review and obtain a permit to start construction work before this date in order to implement projects under the current regulations. For projects whose permits will be issued after October 1, the documentation will have to be brought into compliance with the updated requirements.
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