Patna: The Bihar government has prepared a draft of the Bihar Building Bye-laws 2026, introducing significant reforms aimed at making the building approval process faster, simpler and more transparent across urban areas. The proposal is expected to receive Cabinet approval next month and could come into effect across the state from August.
The new framework seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles by introducing self-certification, deemed approval, and a digital single-window clearance system for building plans, No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and other approvals.
Self-Certification for Buildings up to Eight Storeys
Under the proposed rules, residential buildings up to 24 metres (around eight storeys) and commercial buildings up to 15 metres will qualify for approval through self-certification without requiring multiple rounds of departmental scrutiny.
For residential buildings up to 16 storeys, certification can be obtained from empanelled third-party architects. Buildings exceeding 50 metres in height will continue to undergo scrutiny by the competent authority.
Roadside Parking Could Result in Building Sealing
The draft also introduces stricter enforcement measures for illegal parking.
If residents or occupants of a building are found parking vehicles on public roads instead of designated parking spaces within the premises, the development authority will have the power to seal the entire building.
Automatic Approval if No Decision Within 30 Days
One of the major reforms is the provision for deemed approval. If officials fail to decide on a building plan application within 30 days, the proposal will automatically be treated as approved.
The draft also proposes that land-use conversion will be considered approved immediately after a building plan receives sanction.
Height Restrictions Relaxed, Additional FAR Allowed
The government has proposed removing the upper limit on building height, although restrictions applicable near airports and heritage zones will remain in force.
The base Floor Area Ratio (FAR) will continue to be 3.5, while developers will be allowed to purchase additional FAR by paying the prescribed fee. The proposal does not specify any maximum limit for additional FAR.
Strict Penalty for False Certification
Architects or engineers found submitting false information or approving building plans in violation of regulations will face stringent action.
The draft provides for blacklisting such professionals along with the possibility of criminal proceedings.
Rainwater Harvesting and Accessibility Mandatory
The proposed bye-laws make rainwater harvesting compulsory for all plots measuring 100 square metres or more.
In addition, public buildings spread across 2,000 square metres or larger must provide ramps, accessible toilets and Braille signboards to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
Risk-Based Building Approval System
The draft classifies buildings into three categories based on risk:
- Low-risk buildings: Eligible for self-certification.
- Medium-risk buildings: Certification through empanelled third-party architects.
- High-risk buildings: Buildings above 50 metres to be examined directly by the competent authority.
Buildings approved under the self-certification category will not require a separate Fire NOC, as it will be deemed approved along with the building plan.
Government Aims to Boost Real Estate Investment
According to Urban Development and Housing Minister Nitish Mishra, the revised bye-laws are intended to improve ease of doing business, attract investment in Bihar’s real estate sector and ensure citizens can obtain construction approvals without repeated visits to government offices.
The draft has been placed in the public domain and will be sent to the Cabinet after the consultation process. Once approved, the new building regulations are expected to be implemented across Bihar from August 2026.
