A draft of the updated law on the status of the capital has been published in Kazakhstan, outlining large-scale changes for the development of Astana. The document introduces a unified design code, strengthens control over construction and the city’s architectural image, and establishes new requirements for the urban environment.

A Unified design code for the entire city

One of the key innovations will be the implementation of a unified architectural look for the capital and a mandatory design code. These requirements will apply to building facades, advertising structures, landscaping elements, and other components of the urban environment.

These measures are expected to ensure the city’s visual integrity and improve the quality of architectural solutions.

Control Over construction and urban development

The bill strengthens the regulation of urban planning activities. It provides for additional requirements for construction and adherence to unified standards during the implementation of building projects.

Transport and urban infrastructure

The document also solidifies the development of a traffic management system, including the implementation of modern technologies and intelligent transport solutions.

Its functions will include: managing parking infrastructure, monitoring traffic flows, coordinating traffic lights, organizing vehicle towing, and implementing Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).

Capital territory and the suburban zone

For the first time, the document provides a detailed definition of the legal status of the capital’s territory, including all land and water bodies within administrative boundaries.

Furthermore, the law introduces the concept of a "suburban zone" - territories outside the city that form a unified social, natural, and economic system with the capital. Their boundaries will be determined by the government based on proposals from local executive bodies. A separate land-use regime will be established for these zones, allowing for systemic planning of infrastructure, ecological, and recreational facilities, and ensuring the harmonious integration of suburban areas into the overall urban structure.

In addition, environmental protection requirements are being strengthened, including the protection of green zones and the restriction of activities capable of damaging the natural environment.

Forest parks and ecological restrictions

The bill provides for a special protection regime for the capital’s forest park zones. These areas serve protective, health-improving, and recreational functions, ensuring ecological stability and comfort for residents.

Activities capable of disrupting the natural balance including waste disposal, hunting, interference with soil cover, and other actions that could harm the ecosystem will be strictly prohibited on such lands. These measures are aimed at preserving green spaces and maintaining their role within the urban environment.

Investment and Urban Economic Development

The document also addresses investment policy. New approaches are expected to increase the capital's attractiveness to business and stimulate the growth of commercial activity.

Why the Law Needs Updating

The current law on the status of the capital was adopted in 2007. Since then, Astana has grown significantly in terms of population, the scale of construction, and its economic role.

Updating the legislation is seen as a necessary step for the systemic development of the city and for improving the efficiency of its management.

Public discussion of the draft will last until April 20. Afterward, the document will be refined based on the proposals received and submitted for further review.

If adopted, the law will serve as the foundation for the future development of Astana as a modern and sustainable metropolis.