MUMBAI: Housing societies can now expand their yogalaya, fitness centre, recreation area, or meditation centre within their premises without floor space index (FSI) limitations.
The state urban development department has issued a notification that raises the permissible area for such amenities from 2% to 4% of the total built-up area of the project. Each yogalaya or fitness centre must be at least 323 square feet, and a covered swimming pool is also allowed within this 4% limit. Any utility area exceeding 4% will count towards the FSI, according to the notification.
The state urban development department has amended Regulation 31 (1) and sub-regulations 37 (28) and 37 (28A) of DCPR 2034 for regions under the BMC.
“Gated communities with 50-100 flats are emerging everywhere, and residents desire a variety of facilities to enhance their living experience. Initially, there was only a clubhouse, but over the last 8-10 years, many recreational activities have been added. Given the traffic congestion in the city, residents prefer these amenities within their societies,” said Sandip Isore, a consultant in the real estate sector.
Isore highlighted that residential societies now incorporate clubhouses and fitness centres, necessitating larger spaces due to the significant population in gated communities. “These amenities are now included in the flat sale agreement, ensuring transparency as mandated by RERA, which makes misuse of this space challenging,” he noted.
The notification specifies that ownership of the yogalaya or fitness centre will remain with either the society or the apartment owner’s association. In larger layouts with existing or planned clubhouses, the yogalaya or fitness centre can be built within the existing structures, podium, or basement. These amenities will also be part of the 4% FSI-free area. This provision extends to office or commercial buildings, but a 100% premium based on the Ready Reckoner Rate (RRR) will apply.
Milind Changani, an architect and secretary of PEATA (Practising Engineers, Architects, Town Planners Association), stated that allowing a larger FSI-exempt area enhances the quality of life by improving amenities within residential complexes. “This change significantly benefits smaller developers who can now provide recreational facilities like basketball courts without FSI restrictions. For the first time, commercial buildings can also offer these amenities, greatly enhancing the living conditions for residents.”
