The article examines ecological priorities as a key element of spatial development in the Russian Federation. It demonstrates the fragmentary use of the term “ecological priority” and related formulations in current legislation and strategic planning documents. The study identifies the lack of comprehensive harmonization between ecological, social, and economic aspects of territorial organization, as well as insufficient integration of ecological principles into other non-ecological priorities of spatial development. The author formulates an original understanding of “ecological priorities in spatial development” and outlines directions for improving the legal regulation of spatial development relations in the Russian Federation