Reports indicate that Russia aims to set clear standards for wooden housing by 2024, with rules permitting wooden buildings up to 12 stories tall to be introduced by the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Communal Services. This move is described as part of ongoing plans and is reported by News on the agency’s activities.
The ministry emphasizes the advantages of wood panels, noting their strength under stress, high overall durability, rapid construction timelines, cost efficiency, and the ability to respond to diverse climates. These qualities position timber as a practical option for a broad range of regions across the country, where weather and geography vary significantly.
Officials stressed that projects for high rise wooden buildings are currently under development. The focus includes hotel complexes planned in multiple regions, with the government intent on showcasing timber construction as a viable mainstream method for modern urban development.
Experts point to key hurdles in implementing large scale wooden construction. Public skepticism remains a challenge, and there is a requirement to draft and harmonize a substantial set of sanitary norms and rules to ensure safety, health, and compliance across different jurisdictions.
In March, Irek Fayzullin, the Minister of Construction and Housing and Communal Services, stated that Russia could begin erecting nine story wooden houses in the near term as part of broader pilot initiatives and regulatory updates. This candid statement reflects a push toward demonstrating timber’s capabilities while addressing logistical and regulatory concerns.
Earlier discussions among market observers suggested the potential relocation of residents from emergency housing into wooden high rise structures as a solution to housing shortages. The practical mechanics of this approach would rely on coordinated planning, safety verification, and customer protections to ensure a smooth transition and long term viability for timber high-rise living.