Karnataka Waives Occupancy Certificate for G+2 Buildings on Small Plots

Quick Summary

• New Order: Karnataka government exempts buildings on plots measuring up to 1,200 sq. ft. (ground floor + two upper floors, or stilt + three floors) within Greater Bengaluru Authority’s jurisdiction from requiring an Occupancy Certificate (OC).
• Timeline: The exemption was first discussed in the Karnataka Cabinet on July 3, 2025. It was finalized at a meeting led by Tushar Giri Nath, Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Progress Department).
• Amendments Proposed: Changes are being made to the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024; Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976; and Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department’s model building by-laws to implement this decision.
• Reason for Exemption: Authorities cited delays in OC processing due to administrative checks as causing inconvenience for citizens and burdening civic officials.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The exemption of Occupancy Certificates for smaller residential buildings appears aimed at reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks within Bengaluru’s urban governance framework. This decision could streamline compliance processes for homeowners while alleviating pressures on civic officials tasked with detailed inspections.

Though, potential implications remain complex. On one hand, it can promote quicker housing development across the city’s smaller plots-a likely boon for affordability and accessibility in urban areas with high demand. Conversely, questions may arise about whether such exemptions might compromise safety standards or urban planning objectives if checks previously tied to OC issuance are bypassed.

Balancing efficiency with adherence to regulatory norms will be crucial as these amendments unfold. Monitoring their impact will help ensure that faster development does not come at unforeseen costs.

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