6.4.1. Classification of Buildings

• Group A : Residential Buildings • Group B : Educational Buildings • Group C : Institutional Buildings • Group D : Assembly Buildings • Group E : Business Buildings • Group F : Mercantile Buildings • Group G : Industrial Buildings • Group H : Storage Buildings • Group I : Hazardous Buildings

This section introduces Group A as part of the classification of buildings, specifically focusing on residential buildings. Here, Group A is outlined alongside other groups, such as educational, institutional, assembly, business, mercantile, industrial, storage, and hazardous buildings. Each group serves different purposes, indicating a structured way to categorize buildings based on their functions and use cases.

Think of this classification as a toolbox, where each tool serves a different function. For example, a hammer is for driving nails, while a screwdriver is for turning screws. Similarly, each category like 'residential' or 'educational' indicates a specific use for the building, helping planners and builders decide what is appropriate for each setting.

Different types of residential buildings, plot size, and their frontages:

Types of Residential | Plot size in m² | Frontage in m Detached Building | Above 250 | Above 12 Semi Detached Building | 125-250 | 8-12 Row type Building | 50-125 | 4.5-8

Note: Minimum frontage on any street is 6m; for row housing, it may be 5.5m.

This chunk discusses the different classifications of residential buildings based on plot size and frontage, providing specific criteria for each type. Detached buildings require larger plots and frontages compared to semi-detached and row type buildings. These guidelines ensure that buildings are spaced adequately to maintain aesthetic and functional standards. The note clarifies minimum requirements for street frontages to promote accessibility and urban planning efficiency.

Imagine trying to park your car in a parking lot with poorly designed spaces. Just as having adequate space between parked cars allows you to open doors and maneuver safely, these building regulations ensure enough space between buildings for privacy, access, and overall livability in residential areas.

Minimum Front open space to be provided:

Width of street in front of plot in m | Front open space minimum in m Up to 7.5m | 1.5 7.5 to 18 | 3.0 18 to 30 | 4.5 Above 30 | 6.0

In this chunk, the importance of providing a front open space in residential planning is highlighted. The amount of required open space varies based on the width of the street in front of the property. As streets become wider, the required front open space also increases. This ensures that there is adequate breathing room between buildings and streets, improving aesthetics and functionality.

Consider a playground with lots of open space compared to a congested street. The open space allows kids to run freely and have fun without bumping into things. Similarly, front open space in residential areas provides separation between private homes and public streets, enhancing safety and comfort for the residents.

Permissible Plinth Area (Covered area) in Residential Plots:

Area of Plot | Max. Permissible covered area < 200 m² | 66.66% of plot area 201 to 500 m² | 50% of the plot area 501 to 1000 m² | 40% of the plot area

1000 m² | 33.33% of the plot area

This section outlines the maximum permissible covered area for various plot sizes in residential zones. It specifies what percentage of each plot can be covered by structures. The percentages decrease as the plot size increases, which encourages a balance between built-up area and open space for activities, gardens, or landscaping.

Think about a large pizza divided into slices. If you have a small pizza, you get a bigger slice; but as the pizza gets larger, each slice becomes proportionately smaller to ensure shared enjoyment without overwhelming the plate. This reflects how larger plots promote a balanced approach to building size versus open space.

Floor Area Ratio:

• Floor area ratio (FAR) = Total covered area of all floors / plot area
• FAR : 1 to 2 depending on type of construction
• Maximum building height = (1.5 x width of abutting road) + front open space

This chunk introduces the concept of Floor Area Ratio (FAR), which indicates how much built-up area is allowed in relation to the size of the plot. It influences not just how much a builder can construct but also impacts urban density and planning. The formula for maximum building height suggests a methodical way to establish height limits based on road width, ensuring proper access and safety.

Think of FAR as a recipe for baking cookies. If your recipe says to use a specific amount of flour for a certain batch size, you can’t just keep adding flour without increasing other ingredients. Similarly, FAR ensures that the amount of constructions (like floors in a building) corresponds to the size of the land, maintaining balance in a neighborhood.

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