THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has launched major amendments to the state’s building regulations to streamline the approval process, enhance transparency, and expedite construction permits. Local self-government and excise minister M B Rajesh announced these changes on Wednesday, stating that they were informed by feedback from district-level adalats and consultations with experts, town planners, and industry representatives.
The most significant reform is the expansion of the self-certified permit category. Residential buildings up to 300 sq m are now eligible for instant approval without height restrictions, allowing almost 80% of homes to receive permits automatically when applications are submitted online. For commercial buildings, the self-certified permit limit has increased from 100 sq m to 250 sq m, while G-1 category industrial units up to 200 sq m in the pollution control board’s white and green categories will also qualify for immediate approval.
For other building types, pre-construction site inspections will be waived for applications that get digitally verified under the Smart LSGD system. Site inspections will only occur post plinth-level completion, placing the onus of accuracy on applicants and licensed professionals.
In a notable relief for small plot owners, the required setback from unnotified narrow roads has been reduced from 2 m to 1 m for houses up to 100 sq m on plots smaller than 2 cents. All government buildings, including schools, will now require construction permits, although they will be exempt from fees.
The area threshold allowing local body secretaries to issue permits without district town planner (DTP) approval has also been expanded. Hospitals over 6,000 sq m, industries exceeding 3,000 sq m, and storage buildings surpassing 8,000 sq m will now require DTP clearance, effectively reducing approval delays.
Permit transfer rules are now more flexible, remaining valid even if part of the land is sold. Additionally, revised permit and extension fees have been lowered. Parking regulations have been relaxed, with hostels and old-age homes now only needing half or a quarter of the previous parking space, and parking can be arranged on adjacent plots owned by the same applicant.
The amendments also raise floor space index (FSI) and coverage limits. Educational institutions can now have 40% coverage, while IT parks can achieve coverage up to 70% and FSI of 7. Turf grounds and sports courts have been reclassified under a new “recreational” category with fewer restrictions. Small-scale industries will benefit from reduced setbacks and height requirements.
Minister Rajesh stated that 53 of the 117 existing rules have been amended, two new rules have been introduced, and one has been removed. He described these changes as among the most comprehensive reforms in recent years, aimed at establishing a “transparent, people-friendly, and efficient” construction approval system.
