A major update is on the horizon for Bengaluru property owners. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has proposed new regulations that could significantly increase the cost of obtaining an Occupation Certificate (OC) for buildings with deviations from approved plans.
The proposal is part of the draft notification released by the Karnataka Government and has sparked discussion among homeowners, apartment associations, builders, and real estate professionals. While some of the new rules offer flexibility in building regulations, the increase in OC-related charges is a major concern for many property owners.
What Is Changing?
Under the proposed GBA rules, the fee for regularizing certain building deviations is expected to increase substantially.
Currently, deviation-related charges are around 2.2%, but the new proposal increases them to 6% for many residential properties. This means property owners seeking approvals or Occupation Certificates for buildings with deviations may have to pay significantly higher fees.
For larger developments and high-rise buildings, the charges could be even higher depending on the nature and extent of deviations.
Why Is This Important?
An Occupation Certificate is one of the most important documents for any completed building. It confirms that the structure complies with approved plans and applicable regulations and is safe for occupancy.
Without a valid OC, property owners may face challenges related to:
- Property transactions
- Home loans
- Utility connections
- Legal compliance
- Future redevelopment approvals
Because of this, any increase in OC-related costs directly impacts thousands of property owners across Bengaluru.
Relief and Concern Together
The proposed rules are being described by many as a mix of good and bad news.
Positive Side
The draft notification proposes several relaxations, including:
- Up to 15% deviation allowance in setbacks, ground coverage, and FAR.
- Height relaxation for certain buildings.
- Greater flexibility for regularization of minor construction deviations.
These measures could help many property owners who struggle to obtain approvals due to small deviations during construction.
Negative Side
The biggest concern is the increase in charges.
Apart from the jump from 2.2% to 6%, the proposal also includes:
- Higher inspection fees.
- Additional charges for basement violations.
- Penalties related to terrace and mezzanine floor deviations.
- Increased costs for commercial and high-rise properties.
For many owners, this could translate into a substantial increase in compliance expenses.
Last Opportunity Before New Rules
Property owners who are planning to apply for an Occupation Certificate should closely monitor the implementation timeline.
Many experts believe that delaying the application process could result in higher costs if the revised fee structure comes into force. Those who are already eligible for an OC may benefit from acting sooner rather than later.
Public Objections Open Until April 30
The government has invited objections and suggestions from citizens regarding the proposed rules.
Property owners, apartment associations, builders, architects, and industry stakeholders can submit their feedback to the Urban Development Department before April 30, 2026.
This provides an opportunity to raise concerns about increased fees and suggest changes before the rules are finalized.
Conclusion
The proposed GBA regulations could reshape Bengaluru’s building approval and Occupation Certificate process. While relaxed deviation norms may provide relief to many property owners, the sharp increase in OC-related charges could significantly raise compliance costs.
If you own a residential apartment, independent house, or commercial property in Bengaluru, now is the time to understand these proposed changes, evaluate your property’s compliance status, and stay updated on the final decision by the government.
Being informed today could help you avoid higher costs tomorrow.