Karnataka Eases Building Regulations for Small Residential Plots in Bengaluru

The Karnataka government has eased building regulations for small residential plots in Bengaluru, offering relief to homeowners and developers facing constraints under existing construction norms. The move is aimed at improving buildability on compact plots while maintaining safety, environmental, and planning standards under the city’s revised master plan.

The updated rules introduce differentiated setback norms based on plot size. Setbacks refer to the minimum open spaces required between a building and the plot boundaries. For residential plots measuring 60 square metres, commonly known as 20×30 feet sites, the front setback has been reduced to 0.7 metres, while 0.6 metres is permitted on each side. No rear setback is required for such plots. This change allows more usable built-up area on smaller properties, particularly in densely populated neighbourhoods.

For plots measuring up to 150 square metres, or approximately 30×40 feet, the revised norms prescribe a front setback of 0.9 metres, with 0.7 metres required at the rear and one side boundary. Residential plots up to 250 square metres are allowed a maximum building height of 12 metres, excluding stilt floors. These provisions are intended to create consistency in planning while addressing space limitations faced by individual homeowners.

Despite the relaxations, the government has retained strict compliance requirements. All residential buildings must adhere to the National Building Code 2016, covering structural safety, fire protection, and construction quality. In addition, setback areas cannot be paved or hard-surfaced, ensuring rainwater absorption and supporting groundwater recharge, which remains a critical concern for Bengaluru.

The amendments also include updates to basement usage and parking provisions, aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and functional use of residential properties. Officials have indicated that the changes are designed to balance development needs with environmental sustainability and urban infrastructure capacity.

The revised building regulations are expected to ease approval processes and reduce regulatory challenges for small-plot construction in Bengaluru. By simplifying setback requirements without compromising safety standards, the policy update is likely to support individual home construction and encourage planned residential development across the city.

Also Read: Kamaraj Road Reopens After 7 Years, Eases Bengaluru CBD Traffic