OC Exemption for Small Plots in Bengaluru: A Big Relief for Homeowners
- Aswalolla Praneeth
- Oct 8
- 4 min read
If you own a small residential plot in Bengaluru, here’s some good news! The city authorities have announced that Occupancy Certificates (OC) are no longer required for plots up to 1,200 sq ft. This new rule makes it easier for small homeowners to construct houses and complete registrations without unnecessary delays or paperwork.
Let’s understand what this change means and how you can benefit from it.
What Is an Occupancy Certificate (OC)?
An Occupancy Certificate is a legal document issued by the local civic authority after a building’s construction is completed. It certifies that the building:
Has been built according to the approved plan
Meets safety and construction standards
Complies with local building laws
Previously, homeowners needed an OC to get essential utilities like water, electricity, and sanitation. The process involved site inspections and could take weeks or even months to complete.
The New OC Rule in Karnataka
On September 9, 2025, the Karnataka Urban Development Department issued a new directive under the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024.
As per the updated rule, homeowners in the Greater Bengaluru region no longer need to obtain an OC if their property meets these criteria:
The plot size is up to 1,200 square feet
The building has ground + 2 or stilt + 3 floors
The project is located within Greater Bengaluru Authority limits
The construction plan has been duly approved by the BBMP, BDA, or Greater Bengaluru Authority
Under these conditions, homeowners can get essential services like electricity and water without submitting an OC.
Legal Foundation of the Change
This exemption is permitted under Section 241(7) of the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, which gives the government authority to exempt certain types of buildings from OC requirements.
The rule complements initiatives like Nambike Nakshe, an online system that approves building plans within 15 days—promoting transparency and faster citizen services.
Why This Change Matters
1. Less Delay and Red Tape
Small plot owners often faced long delays due to the OC process. This exemption helps them move in faster and access utilities without waiting months for approval.
2. Reduced Backlogs
Thousands of OC applications were pending with BBMP, BDA, and BESCOM. Exempting smaller houses eases the burden on officials and clears the queue faster.
3. Promotes Legal Compliance
Since OC is no longer a barrier, small homeowners are now more likely to get official plan approvals instead of constructing informally.
4. Lower Costs
By removing inspection fees and extra paperwork, homeowners can save both time and money.
What Hasn’t Changed
Even though the OC requirement is relaxed, certain rules still apply:
Building plan approval is still mandatory for all projects.
Zoning laws, setbacks, and safety norms must be strictly followed.
The rule applies only to residential buildings—not commercial or mixed-use ones.
Plan deviations can still attract penalties.
For home loans or resale, banks might still ask for OC or alternate proof of approval.
Possible Concerns and Limitations
Experts caution that the OC exemption must be implemented carefully. Without strict oversight, there’s a risk of:
Builders misusing the rule and constructing illegally
Reduced enforcement of safety and zoning standards
Long-term challenges for city planning and urban safety
How Homeowners Can Make the Most of This Exemption
To take advantage of this new rule responsibly, homeowners should follow these best practices:
Get Proper Plan Approval – Always get your building plan approved by BBMP/BDA before construction.
Stick to the Approved Plan – Don’t alter heights, setbacks, or floor structures without approval.
Follow Safety Standards – Use certified materials, qualified engineers, and follow fire and structural safety norms.
Obtain NOCs – Secure water, electricity, and environmental clearances as alternative proof.
Keep Documentation – Maintain all approvals, contracts, bills, and drawings.
Stay Updated – Keep an eye on new BBMP notifications or procedural changes.
If you’re unsure about compliance or documentation, it’s wise to hire a trusted construction manager in Bengaluru. They can help you with approvals, technical planning, and ensure your project meets all legal and safety requirements—saving you both stress and costly mistakes.
Conclusion
The OC exemption for small residential plots is a thoughtful step toward simplifying the home-building process for Bengaluru residents. It reduces bureaucratic hurdles, speeds up approvals, and helps small homeowners complete their dream projects faster.
However, remember — this is not a total relaxation. Plan approvals, safety norms, and zoning compliance remain essential. Responsible construction with proper documentation will ensure that you enjoy the benefits of this rule without any legal or structural issues in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is OC not required for 1,200 sq ft plots?
Yes. If your home is on a plot up to 1,200 sq ft, with G+2 or stilt+3 floors, and lies within Greater Bengaluru limits, you are exempted from the OC requirement.
2. Is OC mandatory for all buildings in Bengaluru?
No. Only buildings that meet the above conditions qualify for the exemption. Others still need an OC.
3. What is the full form of OC?
OC stands for Occupancy Certificate.
4. Is it safe to buy a property without an OC?
Generally, no. While small residential plots are now exempt, for other properties, buying without OC can lead to issues with resale, loans, or legality.
5. Is OC mandatory for BESCOM connection?
Earlier, yes. Now, small home owners can apply for BESCOM and BWSSB connections without submitting an OC—if their project qualifies for the exemption.
