Proposal to relax Floor Area Ratio calculation

The amendments will therefore allow the construction of more dwelling units, provided the planning is done properly. The draft of the amendments to zonal regulations of Revised Master Plan-2015 proposes that in plots measuring up to 500 sq m, the area occupied by ventilation ducts, garbage shafts, service shafts, voids, ducts, cut-outs, and open-to-sky areas exceeding 10% of the built-up area would be considered for Floor Area Ratio (FAR) computation.Earlier, these structures were fully included in the FAR computation. The amendments would therefore allow the construction of more dwelling units, provided the planning is done properly.To ensure wider roads and structured drainage networks, the notification also proposes granting FAR on the entire site area, including land required for widening existing roads and roads proposed in the Revised Master Plan-2015, provided the applicant relinquishes such land to the local authority free of cost.Structures in setback areasThe draft also proposes the inclusion of a new clause. Transformers, DG/HSD yards, waste management areas, oxygen or gas plants, watchmen’s cubicles of up to 4 sq m at entry or exit points, and fire control rooms measuring up to 4 m by 4 m may be permitted within setback areas. However, this is subject to the condition that they do not obstruct fire driveways, access, natural light, or ventilation. The proposal also mandates ventilation for security and fire control rooms.The notification further states that underground sumps, sewage treatment plants located only in basement floors or below ground level, and swimming pools may also be permitted within setback areas after reserving space equivalent to the required setback for the basement.ParkingThe draft provides revised setback requirements for basements and introduces provisions for mechanised parking. In plots measuring up to 6,000 sq m, vehicle parking in basements or upper floors, including terrace areas, may be permitted through lift-based, computerised, mechanised, or hydraulic systems without the requirement of a ramp, if opted for voluntarily by the owner. Published - June 05, 2026 09:23 pm IST