Noida and Greater Noida Building Bye Laws

Governed by the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) and the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), are key urban hubs in the Delhi NCR region.

Ground Coverage

Residential plots typically have a maximum ground coverage ranging from 50% to 75%, depending on the plot size.

  • For plots up to 100 sqm, the permissible ground coverage can be as high as 75%.
  • For larger plots, such as those above 300 sqm, the permissible ground coverage is lower, generally 60%.

These percentages help in maintaining open spaces and prevent overcrowding.

Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
  • For residential plots, FAR varies according to plot size:
    • Up to 100 sqm: FAR ranges from 1.8 to 2.0, allowing moderate construction for smaller homes.
    • 101 to 200 sqm: FAR is 1.5 to 1.8.
    • Above 200 sqm: FAR decreases slightly to 1.2 to 1.5, allowing lower construction density on larger plots.
  • For group housing projects or high-rise apartments, FAR is typically higher, ranging between 2.75 and 3.5, depending on the adherence to sustainability norms and planning regulations.

These variations in FAR ensure that construction density is managed according to the plot size and the area’s capacity for infrastructure.

Setbacks
  • Front setbacks: Typically range between 3 to 6 meters, depending on the plot size.
    • For smaller plots up to 100 sqm, the minimum front setback is around 3 meters.
    • For larger plots, such as those above 300 sqm, the front setback increases to around 6 meters.
  • Rear setbacks: Usually range between 1.5 to 3 meters, depending on plot size.
  • Side setbacks: The side setbacks range between 1 to 3 meters, depending on the size of the plot and the type of development. In the case of independent houses, one or both sides of the plot may require side setbacks.

Setbacks ensure that buildings are not overcrowded, maintain proper airflow, and adhere to fire safety requirements.

Height Restrictions

Building height in Noida and Greater Noida is closely tied to the FAR and plot size.

  • For independent residential plots, the maximum permissible height is generally 15 meters, which allows for buildings up to 4 floors including the stilt floor.
  • For high-rise residential and commercial buildings, the height limit can be extended based on the FAR and clearance from relevant authorities like the Airport Authority of India (AAI), especially for buildings near flight paths.
  • Fire safety requirements: Buildings taller than 15 meters must comply with strict fire safety regulations, including the provision of fire exits, fireproof staircases, and proper access for fire tenders.
Stilt Parking and Basement Construction
  • Stilt parking refers to the open ground floor area reserved for parking vehicles. It is commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings to optimize space. The minimum height for stilt parking is generally 2.4 meters.
  • Basement construction is permitted in Noida and Greater Noida, provided the basement is used for parking, storage, or utility services. Basements should not be used for habitable purposes unless special permissions are granted. The basement height should be between 2.4 to 4.75 meters, and if habitable, it must comply with the FAR and fire safety regulations.
Balcony and Projections

Balconies and other architectural projections (such as sunshades and verandahs) are regulated to avoid encroachments and maintain aesthetics.

  • Balcony projections can extend up to 1.5 meters into the open space of the plot, provided they do not exceed 50% of the setback area.
  • Chajja (sun-shades) or canopies over windows are allowed, but they must maintain a minimum height of 2.3 meters from ground level and must not project beyond the plot boundary into public spaces.
Plinth and Foundation

The plinth height is critical to safeguard buildings from waterlogging and other ground-level issues. In Noida and Greater Noida, the minimum plinth height is typically set at 450 mm above the surrounding road level, ensuring proper drainage and protection against water accumulation.

  • The plinth must also have an adequate drainage system to avoid flooding, especially during the monsoon season.
Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is mandatory for all buildings in Noida and Greater Noida, particularly for plots measuring 100 sqm or larger. This is in line with the state’s focus on sustainable urban development and groundwater recharge.

  • A well-designed rainwater harvesting system includes a collection system on rooftops, drainage pipes, and a recharge pit. The recharge pit must be located at least 10 meters away from any sewage or wastewater systems to avoid contamination.
Green Building Norms

To promote eco-friendly construction practices, Noida and Greater Noida authorities have introduced green building norms that encourage developers to adopt energy-efficient measures and sustainable designs.

  • Key elements of green building norms include:
    • Use of solar energy for water heating and electricity generation.
    • Water recycling systems, including the reuse of greywater.
    • Creation of green spaces within housing projects to promote environmental sustainability.
  • Compliance with green norms can offer developers benefits like additional FAR and tax incentives.