Wooden building construction in Lithuania is experiencing a revival—it’s an environmentally friendly, aesthetic, and energy-saving solution. However, when constructing such a building, it’s important to know the applicable regulations and legal acts that can determine both the project’s progress and its success. This article will discuss the key aspects that must be considered before starting the construction of a wooden building.
Building Purpose and Land Planning
The first step is to assess the purpose of the land plot and the applicable land planning documents. Not every location allows for the construction of residential or commercial buildings, even if the plot is your property.
Important to check:
- Land use according to detailed, special, or general plans.
- Whether the area falls into cultural heritage, protected areas, or zones with engineering restrictions.
Key documents:
- Construction Law – regulates construction processes, duties, and responsibilities.
- STR 1.01.03:2017 “Building Classification” – specifies which buildings can be designed according to their purpose.
Advice: Before hiring an architect, it’s worth contacting the municipal urban planning department and ordering a design conditions summary—this way, you’ll know exactly what is allowed to be built.
One option is Arqiplan design services. This company not only helps prepare architectural drawings but also assesses plot planning possibilities, coordinates design conditions with the municipality, and, if necessary, organizes the entire documentation coordination process. This is especially useful for those who want to avoid bureaucratic errors and move faster to actual construction.
Fire Safety: Is it Really Possible to Build with Wood?
Wood is a combustible material, so it is subject to higher safety standards, especially if a taller or public-purpose building is being designed.
According to STR 2.01.04:2004 “Fire Safety”, it is necessary to ensure:
- classification of structural fire resistance (REI),
- appropriate wood combustibility class,
- protection of evacuation routes from smoke and heat,
- installation of fire alarms, automatic extinguishing, and smoke removal systems.
Since 2023, changes have come into effect in Lithuania allowing the construction of wooden public buildings up to 9 stories high, provided all additional fire safety measures are implemented (source).
Important: For smaller (up to 3 stories) residential houses, the requirements are simpler, but even for them, it is necessary to adhere to airtightness and fire resistance criteria.
Energy Efficiency: A+ Class – Not a Recommendation, but a Requirement
According to the latest STR 2.01.02:2016 edition and Construction Law Article 51, all new residential buildings in Lithuania from 2025 must meet at least A+ energy efficiency class.
This means:
- high-quality thermal insulation (at least a 30 cm roof insulation layer),
- efficient windows and doors,
- building airtightness test (blower door test),
- integration of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar modules).
An energy efficiency certificate is mandatory if:
- you are building a new building,
- reconstructing more than 25% of its value,
- want to sell or rent the property.
Certification must be performed by an accredited specialist, and the data is included in the ESAVADAI.lt system.
Construction Permit and Project Coordination
Even if you are building only a small garden house, it is essential to ensure whether a permit is required. Since 2021, the centralized Planning Construction system operates in Lithuania, where you can:
- check if a construction permit is needed,
- obtain design conditions,
- submit the project for coordination,
- track the progress of documentation.
A construction permit is mandatory when:
- the building exceeds 80 m²,
- it falls into cultural heritage or protected natural areas,
- it is planned to change the purpose or build engineering networks.
If you have an architect or design company – all documentation is usually handled through them.
Sustainability Certificates: LEED, BREEAM, and Others
More and more real estate projects are aiming for international sustainability certificates. Although they are not mandatory in Lithuania, they are becoming increasingly relevant in public procurement or international projects.
To obtain such a certificate:
- only certified materials are used (e.g., FSC or PEFC wood),
- low CO₂ emitting heating-ventilation systems are designed,
- sorting and secondary use of materials are ensured at the construction site.
Sustainability certification can increase the commercial value of the building and help sell or rent it faster.
In Brief:
Wooden building construction is not only an architectural solution but also a responsibility. From plot documents to energy efficiency certificates—each stage requires knowledge, planning, and adherence to regulations.
In Brief:
- Check the plot’s purpose and land plans.
- Adhere to fire safety requirements.
- Ensure the project meets A+ class standards.
- Use the Planuojustatau.lt platform to obtain a construction permit.
- Evaluate the benefits of sustainability—it’s an investment in the future.
If you are looking for a reliable partner who can assist with design documents, coordination, and energy efficiency solutions, contact Arqiplan – our expertise will ensure your project develops smoothly and according to current requirements.