Andhra Pradesh Overhauls Building Rules to Speed Approvals and Attract Investment
The Andhra Pradesh government has introduced major amendments to the state's Building Rules, 2017, aiming to accelerate construction approvals, attract investment, and promote safer urban development. The changes were notified through G.O.Ms. No.161 by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department on July 29.
The revised framework simplifies regulatory procedures while strengthening safeguards related to structural safety, fire protection, and environmental standards. It aligns with central government deregulation guidelines and followed a public consultation process involving urban local bodies, development authorities, and citizens.
MA&UD Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar stated that the reforms support Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's Swarna Andhra@2047 vision of creating transparent, technology-driven, and globally competitive cities.
Key changes include: buildings measuring 24 metres or more (including stilt floor) are now classified as high-rise; standardised documentation for building approvals; structural designs based on soil-bearing capacity required for buildings above 10 metres; and an 'All Risks Insurance Policy' mandate 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 be revalidated under a clear framework. Buildings used exclusively for public worship are exempted from building permit fees, though applications must go through the online approval system.
A significant reform introduces phased fire clearances for high-rise projects, allowing construction up to 24 metres before submitting 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 like 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. Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar noted that the revised rules establish a transparent, risk-based regulatory system, ensuring faster, predictable approvals and strengthening investor confidence across Andhra Pradesh.
