Building Permit Reforms: Instant Approval for Two-Storey Houses up to 3,229 sq. ft

Major relaxations in building rules for residential, commercial and industrial constructions

The government has decided to grant instant building permits for two-storey houses with a total area up to 300 square meters (3,229.17 sq. ft), regardless of height. This is part of a series of major amendments being introduced in the state’s building construction rules. Once the law department completes its review, the notification will be officially released.

Currently, only houses with a height of up to 7 meters are eligible for self-certified permits. Under the new reforms, the area limit for self-certified permits for commercial buildings will also be increased from 100 sq. meters (1,076.39 sq. ft) to 250 sq. meters (2,690.98 sq. ft). This means small and medium commercial buildings can now obtain instant approval upon application.

Similar relaxations will apply to industrial buildings as well. Under the revised rules, industrial buildings under the G1 category, with a total area up to 200 sq. meters (2,152.78 sq. ft) and classified under the White and Green categories of the Pollution Control Board, will also receive instant permits upon application.

Over 200 Amendments to Building Rules

The government is moving towards a comprehensive overhaul of the building construction regulations, introducing more than 200 amendments to the existing 117 rules. Special relaxations will also be provided considering Kerala’s geographical limitations and unique characteristics. These reforms are based on recommendations received from local bodies and the Nava Kerala Sadas.