Changes regarding the Land issue in Russia

Forecast: "Outlines of the Global Future" (published on February 9, 2026, link)

S. Dragan:

It seems that since May 2026, life, habits, and moods in Russia have changed significantly... Additionally, the situation regarding the Earth theme may change from May 2026...

On May 2, 2026, the President of the Russian Federation V. Putin signed the Federal Law No. 121-FZ "On Amending the Land Code of the Russian Federation and the Federal Law 'On Supporting the Development of Housing Construction, Creating Tourist Infrastructure and Other Development of Territories'."

The main changes introduced by the law:

• The specifics of free land transfer from federal ownership to the subjects of the Russian Federation or municipal ownership have been established. In particular, it has been clarified which land plots do not fall under such transfer, the procedure for verifying the grounds for refusing transfer and the decision-making process on the advisability of transfer.
• The possibility of conducting an auction for the right to conclude a lease agreement for a land plot located within the boundaries of the coastal strip of a publicly used water object has been secured.

From May 2026, dacha and suburban land owners will face stricter legislation: fines for a number of violations will increase several times, and in the case of systematic inaction, one can lose their land. The innovations concern the struggle against weeds, land development, fire safety, and household order on the plot.

One of the main changes is the recognition of Siberian squash as an official threat. Now, all owners are obligated to destroy this plant, or face fines. Ambrosia, chickweed, and plants with psychoactive effects, such as sage of the seers and prickly salsify, are also banned. Proof of treatment of the area before flowering of such plants can protect against inspector complaints, through photo or video documentation. If the weeds come from a neighboring plot, a complaint should be filed with the local administration.

Land development rules have also been tightened. If a plot is acquired for gardening or horticulture, it must be used within three years. Development includes construction, planting trees, or regular soil treatment. Failure to comply results in a fine of 20,000 rubles (1-1.5% of the cadastral value), and upon repeat violation, the land may be seized through court action. Activity can be proven with checks for seedlings, contracts with contractors, and dated photos.

Fire safety regulations are now being enforced more strictly. Open fires and barbecues are only permitted under specific conditions: a 5-meter distance from buildings and a 10-meter radius around the fire source free of dry vegetation. There must be a bucket of water or a box of sand available. Violating these rules can result in fines, especially if the fire spreads to neighboring properties.

Additionally, there is heightened scrutiny for minor but frequent infractions. For example, installing a fence on someone else's property or on a shared road can incur a fine of 5,000 rubles and a requirement to remove the fence. Washing a car on a property without a storm drain system is also punishable - up to 5,000 rubles. Using a well without a license or illegally tapping into a water main can cost up to 15,000 rubles.

As of June 2026, land owners in Russia will face a series of legislative changes affecting construction, land use, and safety requirements. The new norms will impact both dacha owners and private house owners.

Wells and Boreholes: New Requirements and Potential Fines

Starting June 1, 2026, wells on land plots will officially be classified as utility buildings. Their parameters, including location and size, will be regulated by local urban planning norms.

This means such structures will no longer be considered free-standing. Owners facing non-compliance with established requirements may be subject to fines and orders for demolition.

S. Dragan:

Interestingly, after May 2026, Russia's relations with other countries in terms of communication and tourism may also change. A significant easing in these areas is possible...