New rules allow 10-storey buildings on larger plots in Hulhumalé
Under the new rules, the two lowest floors of buildings exceeding six storeys cannot be used for residential purposes.
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The government has gazetted new development control regulations for Hulhumalé, allowing the construction of buildings of up to 10 storeys on residential plots measuring 900 square feet and above.
The regulations were published on Wednesday under the Hulhumalé Development Control Regulations.
Under the new rules, the two lowest floors of buildings exceeding six storeys cannot be used for residential purposes. These floors must be allocated for parking or approved commercial use.
The regulations were formulated by the Ministry of Finance under the Land Act and set out standards for construction on residential plots. Design approvals and construction permits must be obtained through the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) before work can begin.
The maximum building height has been set at 30.5 metres. Height limits based on plot size are specified as follows:
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Under 400 sq ft: up to 6 metres (1 floor)
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Under 500 sq ft: up to 6.5 metres (2 floors)
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Under 600 sq ft: up to 9.5 metres (3 floors)
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Under 700 sq ft: up to 12.5 metres (4 floors)
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Under 800 sq ft: up to 15.5 metres (5 floors)
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801 to 900 sq ft: up to 24.5 metres (8 floors)
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Above 900 sq ft: up to 30.5 metres (10 floors)
Buildings up to six storeys or 18.5 metres must provide space for motorcycle parking. Buildings exceeding this height must allocate the ground floor for parking.
The regulations also set standards for floor usage, setbacks, floor space index and land use. Construction must follow setback plans issued by HDC.
For buildings exceeding six storeys, the ground and first floors cannot be used for residential purposes even if a basement is used for parking. These floors must be used for parking or approved commercial activities. Activities such as industrial work, warehousing and operations that create noise, odours, smoke or dust are not permitted.
Boundary walls are limited to a height of 1.2 metres, with construction standards specified.
The regulations also include provisions for parking, waste management, ventilation, safety measures and digital infrastructure. Roof terraces must be designed to allow installation of solar panels.
Guidelines are also set for the installation of telecommunication equipment, including towers and antennas, subject to approval by HDC.
With the introduction of these regulations, the previous Hulhumalé Planning and Construction Regulation has been repealed.
