Brno criticizes amendment to Energy Act, calls for legislative correction

The city of Brno has strongly criticized the recent approval of an amendment to the Energy Act by the Chamber of Deputies, arguing that it significantly restricts municipalities’ ability to influence urban building regulations. The controversial proposal, dubbed Lex RES III, is now awaiting assessment by the President of the Republic. Brno officials warn that the adopted changes could have severe negative effects on residents’ quality of life, particularly in areas such as urban planning, public spaces, and green infrastructure. In response, the city, along with other municipalities and urban planning experts, is urging a reassessment and correction of the legislation. The amendment’s impact is expected to extend beyond Brno to other major cities, including Prague and Ostrava.

Brno’s leadership argues that the amendment strips the city of a crucial tool for managing urban development. This includes the organization of technical infrastructure elements both in and under streets, as well as the regulation of tree planting and maintenance of green spaces. Mayor Markéta Vaňková expressed frustration over the lack of prior consultation with the city regarding this substantial reduction in municipal authority. She also criticized the manner in which the amendment was pushed through, labeling it a “sticker amendment”—a legislative maneuver that bypasses thorough professional and public debate.

City Councillor Petr Bořecký emphasized that the changes contradict the principles of the new building law, which equates the importance of green infrastructure with transport and technical infrastructure. He pointed out that the Senate had initially rejected the provision and had instead approved an alternative amendment that was ultimately ignored by the Chamber of Deputies. In response to this legislative setback, Brno is now advocating for a revision in the next follow-up amendment to the Energy Act, known as Lex RES IV.

Bořecký warned that the recently approved amendment is set to take effect in just five months, leaving little time to address its potential consequences. He urged swift action to prevent long-term damage to urban planning policies and ensure that cities retain their ability to shape their development in line with environmental and public interest considerations.

Source: CTK