Introduction

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has recently revised its building construction rules, aiming to curb unauthorised construction and ensure compliance with safety regulations. These changes are crucial for anyone planning to build or modify structures in Kolkata, as they outline specific requirements for various types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Revised Building Rules to Prevent Unauthorized Construction

KMC's new regulations are designed to limit unauthorized construction by prohibiting regularization if the violation exceeds 10% of the permissible area. This strict measure ensures that builders adhere to the approved plans and maintain the integrity of the city's infrastructure.

Furthermore, the civic body has suspended the completion certificates (CC) for hundreds of newly constructed buildings. This action follows the Garden Reach tragedy, highlighting the importance of adhering to building rules.

Relief for Small Plot Owners

To assist owners of smaller land plots, Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim has instructed the KMC Buildings Department to relax certain land rules. This move allows owners with plots ranging from 500 sq ft to 2,200 sq ft to construct buildings legally, avoiding the need for unauthorized construction. Even Thika land plots fall under this relaxation, offering more flexibility for small plot owners.

Ward-Wise Campaign for Public Awareness

In an effort to educate citizens about these new rules, the KMC has initiated a ward-wise campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness among residents about the changes in building regulations, ensuring that everyone is informed and compliant.

KMC Property Tax and Revenue Generation

KMC generates revenue through various taxes, including property tax. The tax applies to all properties within the corporation's jurisdiction. Initially assessed using the Annual Rateable Value (ARV) method, KMC introduced the Unit Area Assessment (UAA) in 2017, simplifying the tax calculation process.

Classification of Residential Buildings

According to KMC, residential buildings are classified based on their occupancy. These include single or multiple dwellings, flats, apartments, and hostels. The construction of residential buildings must comply with specific KMC guidelines to ensure safety and proper design standards.

Different Types of Buildings Under KMC Rules

KMC's building rules apply not only to residential structures but also to educational, institutional, assembly, business, industrial, storage, mercantile, and hazardous buildings. Each category has its own set of regulations to follow, ensuring that all types of construction adhere to safety and zoning requirements.

Detailed Guidelines for KMC Building Construction

KMC has laid out comprehensive guidelines for building permits, zoning regulations, floor area ratios (FAR), setback requirements, building height restrictions, fire safety measures, structural stability, parking infrastructure, and more. These rules are crucial for maintaining the city's infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its residents.

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Rules

KMC's FAR guidelines specify the maximum permissible floor area ratio for different building types. The FAR is calculated by dividing the total floor area of all floors by the total plot area. This ratio helps maintain balance in construction density across the city.

Width of means of access (Metres)

Group of buildings

Residential buildings

Educational buildings

Industrial, storage and hazardous buildings

Assembly, institutional, business, mercantile Building

Below 2.4

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Above 2.4 to 3.5

1.25

Nil

Nil

Nil

Above 3.5 to 7.0

1.75

Nil

Nil

Nil

Above 7.0 to 9.0

2

2

Nil

Nil

Above 9.0 to 15.0

2.25

2.25

2

2

Above 15.0 to 20.0

2.5

2.5

2

2.25

Above 20.0 to 24.0

2.75

2.75

2

2.5

Above 24.0

3

3

2

2.75

 

Boundary Wall Requirements

Every building in Kolkata must have a boundary wall or fence. KMC specifies the minimum and maximum heights for these walls, depending on the building's purpose. For instance, residential buildings must have a boundary wall between 1.5 and 2.75 meters in height, while industrial and commercial buildings require walls between 2.75 and 3.65 meters.

Building Height Restrictions

KMC has also set height restrictions based on the width of the abutting road. For example, buildings with access roads between 2.4 and 3.0 meters wide cannot exceed 7 meters in height. These height regulations ensure that buildings are constructed in harmony with the surrounding infrastructure.

Width of means of access (in m)

Maximum height of building (in m) -

Maximum height of building (in m) - If a 2.5 km wide land strip covering the frontage of the entire plot is gifted to corporation

Above 2.4 up to 3.0

7

Nil

Above 3.0 up to 5.0

10

12.5

Above 5.0 up to 7.0

12.5

15.5

Above 7.0 up to 9.0

20

25.5

Above 9.0 up to 12.0

40

-

Above 12.0 up to 15.0

60

-

Above 15.0

No restriction

-

 

Basement Construction Rules

Basements in Kolkata can be used for parking, storage, or commercial purposes, provided they meet specific KMC guidelines. These include restrictions on outer wall placement, drainage requirements, ventilation standards, and compliance with fire safety norms.

Parking Area Specifications

KMC mandates that parking spaces be located on the ground floor or in basements. Parking areas must be easily accessible, well-ventilated, and equipped with adequate pumping facilities. The minimum required space varies depending on the vehicle type, ensuring safe and efficient use of the parking infrastructure.

Kitchen and Bathroom Standards

KMC's rules for kitchens and bathrooms are designed to ensure hygiene and safety. Kitchens must have a minimum floor area of 4.5 sq m and be well-ventilated. Bathrooms must adhere to specific size, layout, and ventilation standards, with an emphasis on preventing moisture damage and ensuring proper drainage.

Height of building

Front open space

Open space on side-1

Open space on side-2

Rear open space

Up to 7.0 m

1.2 m

1.2 m

1.2 m

2.0 m

Above 7.0 m up to 10.0 m

1.2 m

1.2 m

1.2 m

3.0 m

Above 10.0 m up to 12.5 m

1.2 m

1.2 m

1.5 m

3.0 m

Above 12.5 m up to 15.5 m

2.0 m

1.5 m

2.5 m

4.0 m

Above 15.5 m up to 20.0 m

3.5 m

4.0 m

4.0 m

5.0 m

Above 20.0 m up to 25.5 m

5.0 m

5.0 m

5.0 m

6.5 m

Above 25.5 m up to 40.0 m

6.0 m

6.5 m

6.5 m

8.5 m

Above 40.0 m up to 60.0 m

8.0 m

8.0 m

8.0 m

10.0 m

Above 60.0 m up to 80.0 m

10.0 m

15 percent of the height of the building

15 percent of the height of the building

12.0 m

Above 80.0 m

12.0 m

15 percent of the height of the building

15 percent of the height of the building

-

Conclusion

Adhering to KMC's updated building rules is essential for anyone involved in construction within Kolkata. These regulations are designed to maintain safety, prevent unauthorized construction, and ensure that buildings meet the city's infrastructure standards. Whether you are a builder, architect, or homeowner, understanding and following these guidelines is crucial for successful and compliant construction.