A.P. amends building rules to speed up construction, boost investment
The State government has introduced reforms to the Andhra Pradesh Building Rules, 2017, aimed at accelerating construction approvals, attracting investment and promoting safer and more
The State government has introduced reforms to the Andhra Pradesh Building Rules, 2017, aimed at accelerating construction approvals, attracting investment and promoting safer and more sustainable urban development. The amendments, notified through G.O.Ms. No.161 by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department on July 29, are expected to simplify regulatory procedures while strengthening safeguards related to structural safety, fire protection and environmental standards. The reforms align with the Centre's deregulation guidelines and follow a public consultation process involving Urban Local Bodies, Urban Development Authorities and citizens.
MA&UD Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar said the revised framework supports Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's Swarna Andhra@2047 vision of creating transparent, technology-driven and globally competitive cities. Among the key changes, buildings measuring 24 metres or more, including the stilt floor, will now be classified as high-rise structures. All Risks Insurance Policy The rules also standardise documentation for building approvals, mandate structural designs based on soil-bearing capacity for buildings above 10 metres and require developers to obtain an ‘All Risks Insurance Policy’ during construction. To ease financial pressure on developers, the City-Level Infrastructure Impact Fee can now be paid in six equal instalments over three years.
Expired building permissions can also be revalidated under a clearly defined framework. Buildings used exclusively for public worship have been exempted from building permit fees, though applications must continue through the online approval system. A major reform introduces phased fire clearances for high-rise projects, allowing construction up to 24 metres before submission of the Fire No Objection Certificate for higher floors, while ensuring structural designs cover the complete building. The amendments also mandate electric vehicle charging infrastructure in large commercial and residential developments, require common amenities such as creches in major housing projects and expand the use of Transferable Development Rights under prescribed safety norms.
MA&UD Minister Ponguru Narayana said the reforms would eliminate unnecessary delays while preserving critical planning and safety standards. Suresh Kumar said the revised rules establish a transparent, risk-based regulatory system that would ensure faster, predictable approvals and strengthen investor confidence across Andhra Pradesh.
The BriefWire