Building codes and compliance regulations are foundational elements in the construction and real estate development sector. In Telangana, a rapidly urbanizing state, adherence to these standards is critical for ensuring safety, structural integrity, environmental sustainability, and legal legitimacy. The state’s regulatory framework has evolved to accommodate rapid growth, smart city initiatives, and infrastructure development, while keeping pace with national policies and urban planning best practices. This blog provides an in-depth overview of how building codes work in Telangana, what they cover, and the process developers, architects, and builders must follow to remain compliant.
In Telangana, building regulations are primarily governed by the Telangana Building Rules, which were notified by the state government and are enforced through local urban bodies such as the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), and municipal corporations in other cities. These rules dictate how land can be used, what type of structures can be constructed, and the standards that must be met for safety, sanitation, parking, setbacks, and environmental considerations. Additionally, the Telangana State Building Permission Approval and Self-Certification System (TS-bPASS), launched in 2020, has made the building approval process more transparent and citizen-friendly by allowing online application submission and fast-tracking approvals for residential buildings.
The TS-bPASS is a significant reform aimed at reducing red tape and expediting the construction approval process. For plot sizes up to 75 square yards, no permission is required—builders simply need to register. For buildings up to 600 square meters and below 10 meters in height, permissions are granted instantly upon self-certification. For larger or more complex projects, scrutiny by relevant authorities ensures that architectural plans comply with safety, zoning, and environmental norms. TS-bPASS integrates multiple departments—including fire safety, electricity, water supply, and environmental clearances—into a single-window approval system. This holistic approach ensures a smoother compliance journey for builders and developers.
One of the key components of compliance in Telangana is adherence to zoning regulations and land use classification. The HMDA and other planning bodies divide regions into different zones—residential, commercial, mixed-use, industrial, recreational, etc.—and specific guidelines are prescribed for each zone. Builders must ensure their development plans conform to these classifications. Violating zoning norms can lead to rejection of permissions, penalties, or even demolition orders. Additionally, factors such as permissible Floor Space Index (FSI), building height, open space requirements, and number of floors allowed are all dictated by these regulations.
Setback rules are another essential aspect of building codes. Setbacks are the minimum open spaces to be left around the building from the plot boundary. These rules ensure adequate light, ventilation, privacy, and fire safety access. In Telangana, setback requirements vary depending on the size of the plot, building height, and location. For instance, buildings on smaller plots may have relaxed setbacks, while high-rise buildings must maintain larger open areas to allow emergency access and prevent overcrowding. Builders must carefully study these norms during the design phase to avoid violations that could stall construction or invite penalties.
Another critical element of compliance is parking space regulation. As cities grow denser, traffic congestion and parking shortages have become pressing concerns. Telangana’s building rules specify the number of parking spaces to be provided based on the type and size of the building. For residential apartments, one car parking space per flat is typically required. Commercial buildings, offices, malls, and hospitals have more stringent requirements based on built-up area. Builders must account for basement or stilt parking in their designs and ensure ramps and ventilation comply with safety norms.
In recent years, the Telangana government has emphasized green building standards and environmental compliance. Rainwater harvesting pits, solar energy systems, tree plantation, and energy-efficient designs are now mandated for many types of developments. The Environmental Protection Act and the State Pollution Control Board also regulate water usage, waste disposal, and emissions during construction. Projects exceeding certain thresholds in built-up area must obtain Environmental Clearance (EC) from the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). These initiatives align Telangana with national and global sustainability goals.
Structural safety norms, especially in seismic zones and flood-prone areas, are also part of Telangana’s building code compliance. Builders must follow the National Building Code of India (NBC) and relevant Indian Standards (IS) codes during design and execution. Earthquake-resistant design, wind load calculations, and proper foundation techniques are essential. For high-rise buildings, structural drawings must be vetted by empaneled structural engineers and proof consultants. The GHMC and HMDA have also introduced a third-party structural audit mechanism for quality assurance in large or sensitive projects.
Fire safety is another vital area of compliance. All commercial buildings, multi-story apartments, educational institutions, hospitals, and public gathering places must adhere to the Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services Department’s guidelines. This includes the installation of fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, fire exits, and staircases as per prescribed standards. Builders must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department before occupancy. Periodic inspections and drills are also mandated to ensure continued readiness.
Legal compliance also involves adhering to the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA), which mandates registration of all real estate projects above a certain size with the Telangana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TS-RERA). Builders must disclose project details, timelines, layout plans, and financials on the TS-RERA portal and update them regularly. Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal action, or project blacklisting. TS-RERA has been instrumental in bringing transparency and accountability to the real estate sector.
In cases where illegal construction or code violations are identified, enforcement actions include issuance of stop-work notices, demolition orders, or fines under the Telangana Municipalities Act or the GHMC Act. However, the government also offers regularization schemes, such as the Building Regularization Scheme (BRS) and Layout Regularization Scheme (LRS), allowing owners to legalize minor violations on payment of fees and penalties. These schemes aim to integrate unapproved structures into the formal planning system without compromising public safety.
The process of applying for building permission typically involves submission of digital plans prepared by licensed architects or engineers, along with ownership documents, tax receipts, soil test reports, and affidavits. The TS-bPASS portal tracks application status, generates e-permissions, and provides digital certificates. Applicants must also comply with periodic inspection requirements at different stages of construction—foundation, plinth, lintel, and final completion. A Completion Certificate (CC) and Occupancy Certificate (OC) are mandatory before any building can be occupied or sold.
Public participation is also gaining importance in urban planning and building code implementation. Through public hearings, stakeholder consultations, and grievance redressal mechanisms, citizens can voice concerns about unauthorized constructions or poorly planned developments. Telangana’s planning bodies have also started using GIS-based tools, drone surveys, and AI-driven compliance tracking to detect deviations and unauthorized activities in real-time.
Understanding and complying with building codes in Telangana is not just a legal requirement but a vital part of responsible urban development. Whether you’re a homeowner constructing a small house, a builder developing a gated community, or a corporation building commercial infrastructure, compliance ensures that the structure is safe, sustainable, and aligned with broader city planning goals. It also enhances property value, improves resale potential, and protects against future legal disputes. With digital governance, updated regulations, and a collaborative approach between government and industry, Telangana is paving the way for efficient, transparent, and future-ready construction practices. As the state continues to urbanize and innovate, understanding building code compliance will remain a key skill and responsibility for every stakeholder in the construction and real estate ecosystem.
