If you are planning to build a home or a structure and do not know what rules and regulations must be followed. Building a house involves understanding building Bylaws and codes. The laws change from geographical location to plot size, area, setback, height, and more.
Additionally, it also includes how much space should be dedicated to green spaces, amenities, etc. By sticking to the laws how builders, ensure safe and organized construction. Let us discuss some norms and why they were introduced.
What are building BYLAWS?
There are some sets of rules framed by the authorities to regulate construction activity to ensure safety and planning policies. Building codes, on the other hand, are standardized regulations that provide technical guidance on construction materials, methods, and designs.
These regulations were set up by authorities like HMDA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority), GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation), DTCP (Directorate of Town and Country Planning), and other local authorities.
RULES ACROSS INDIA
Fundamental rules of building Bylaws vary depending on the region:
Height Restrictions :
High-rise buildings need clearance from the aviation department. Usually building heights are regulated to ensure public safety. It is the critical aspect governed by local bylaws. Without special permissions In most cities, residential buildings cannot exceed 15-18 meters.
Setbacks & Open Spaces :
Buildings and property boundaries must be separated by a minimum distance to ensure adequate natural light and ventilation. In residential zones, authorities have mandated 30-40% of the plots remain for green spaces. Commercial and industrial areas might require less space. In commercial zones, setbacks are more flexible.
Floor Space Index :
The construction area allowed on the plot of land. It is a crucial factor in urban planning and construction. The formula to calculate plot size is.
FSI = Total Built-up Area / Plot Area
Parking Regulations :
Bylaws require a specific number of parking spaces based on the size of the building. Residential and commercial parking regulations are crucial, and for high-rise buildings multi-level parking system is mandatory. And generally in residential buildings 100 sq.m is required and 50 sq.m for commercial.
Zoning Regulations
use of lands at designated lands in specific areas. Zones are categorized into 4:
Residential for houses and buildings.
Commercials for shopping malls, office spaces, etc.
Industrial for manufacturing industries.
Mixed-use of land like residential and commercial.
Environment & Safety Standards
Apart from structural laws, there are some bylaws for sustainability and safety . Cities are increasingly adopting systems like rainwater harvesting, green building norms, and Waste management systems. It also includes fire safety management and sprinkler systems, regulated in high-rise buildings.
Bylaws in Specific Cities
HYDERABAD
FSI 1.5- 2.0 for residential
Setbacks 3-5 meters, depending on plot size
height restrictions at 15 meters for residential buildings
MUMBAI
FSI goes up to 2.5
strict height restrictions
parking restrictions are uncompromising due to the high population
BANGALORE
FSI up to 3.25 on commercial
residential FSI ranging from 1.0 to 2.0
Height restrictions in certain areas near tech parks, and can be flexible, allowing high-rise constructions.
Conclusion
Learning Bylaws and codes is very important for everyone who is looking to construct or modify a building and these regulations ensure the orderly development of the city. Always check the local Bylaws before building a home office or industrial facility to ensure your project meets all legal requirements.
