Saeima adopts new Architecture Law in final reading
On Thursday, Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, passed the Architecture Law in its final reading. It sets out the sector's core principles and self-governance for architects, and takes effect on 1 January 2027.
The Saeima, Latvia's parliament, on Thursday adopted the new Architecture Law in its final reading, after views on the bill had diverged within the sector. The law is meant to strengthen the role of architects and landscape architects and to create preconditions for shaping and managing a high-quality spatial environment and landscape. It will enter into force on 1 January 2027.
What the law provides
The document establishes the basic principles of the architecture sector, the competence of local governments in this field, and the rules for the professional activity and self-governance of architects and landscape architects. It applies to both groups.
The law reinforces the role of municipalities in creating a quality living environment and defines the functions of a city architect. It also provides for a Latvian Chamber of Certified Architects, which will act as the self-governing body for architects and landscape architects.
In addition, the law regulates architecture, landscape architecture and urban planning competitions, and sets principles for integrating art and design into publicly significant buildings and their outdoor surroundings. This issue in particular caused disagreement during drafting, between architects on one side and builders and real estate developers on the other.
Changes before the final reading
Before the vote, lawmakers backed several amendments. The definition of a quality living environment was refined, as were the sector's principles and municipal tasks. The rules on city architects were improved, and the functions of the chamber and the requirements for maintaining professional qualifications were clarified.
Previous arrangement
At present, architecture is regulated by several legal acts, including the Construction Law. The new law will bring the sector's principles, the competence of responsible institutions, professional activity and self-governance together in one place.
Oļegs Burovs (GKR), chair of the Saeima's State Administration and Local Government Committee, said earlier that discussions on the law had lasted 21 years and that lawmakers, together with industry professionals, had managed to agree on a new wording.
