Is Covering Balcony Illegal?

The BBMP Chief Commissioner Gaurav Gupta recently issued a circular to all residential complexes in Devarachikkanahalli to follow balcony rules and regulations. He further said that making changes to balcony without getting authorisation has been prohibited. Let’s check out the latest rules regarding the coverage of balcony in Bangalore.

Is it Legal to Cover Balcony?

No, it is not legal to cover balcony in Bangalore. Gaurav Gupta claimed that it is against the rules to cover the balcony, change it, or construct other structures even after receiving the Commencement Certificate (CC) and Occupancy Certificate (OC). It violates the law and makes the balcony hazardous. Some of the balcony rules for apartment buildings are as follows:

• Without the appropriate permissions or approvals, it may be against the law to cover a balcony. While some minor alterations, such as the installation of momentary shades or screens, can be permitted, enclosures or substantial coverings might call for a more rigorous permission procedure. This is possible after involving the opinion of a professional engineer.

• Any enclosure must adhere to the safety standards and building requirements established by the government. 

• The enclosure of balconies must not violate any rules or cause major structural alterations that could harm society or the structural integrity.

I hope I answered your query if can I cover my balcony.

Covering the balcony is a good way to make your living room bigger or increase the storage space in your house, but there are a few legality issues attached with it. When I bought an apartment, I was inclined towards covering the balcony. Though, I had doubts about whether “Is covering balcony illegal?” 

However, after thorough research, I found that there are a few legality issues related to this. Also, the rules vary amongst cities. I’d like to share my research regarding the same in accordance with the cities of Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurgaon.

Is covering balcony illegal in Bangalore?

According to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), covering balconies and adding to or changing existing balconies violates their guidelines and is dangerous practise that is prevalent throughout the city. 

The BBMP further stated that pre-approval from BBMP competent authorities is required in order to make modifications to residential complexes and other buildings.

Is covering balcony illegal in Mumbai?

Enclosing balconies is forbidden by the  Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Previously, according to the Development Control Regulations (DCR) 1991, balconies could be enclosed with the prior permission of the municipal commissioner.  

Nonetheless, the BMC has since stated that it will no longer recognise balconies under DCR and that it is the responsibility of the developers to construct a balcony; also, it should not be enclosed later.

In Pune,  it is illegal and definitely, it will spoil the beauty of the building. Hence, you should not do any modification unless the society members agree to it.

In Gurgaon, the enclosure of balconies is illegal. Any kind of renovation of your flat without the consent of your Housing Society or Apartment Owners Association is illegal.

Is covering balcony illegal in Delhi?

The DDA regulations prohibit totally enclosing balconies or converting them into rooms. Yet, they can be partially enclosed with the use of appropriate materials and techniques that guarantee the residents' security. You must get permission from the local authorities, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the Delhi Fire Services, and the DDA if you want to partially enclose your balcony.

I’d like to conclude here as I believe this suffices your query about “ Is covering balcony illegal?” I hope this helps:)

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